Freesurf v19n2

deep bliss Kaulana Apo

Photo: Ryan "Chachi" Craig

V19N2 Free in Hawai'i

©2022 Vans, Inc.

go to vans.com/sustainability for full product details

Introducing THE CIRCLE VEE:: Renewable materials that regrow as we use them, knitted uppers that reduce waste, and a good step forward because we put in the effort with the little things.

K AL AN I R I V ERO

FIND REFUGE IN THE SEA

WELCOME TO THE TEAM

F R E E

P A R K I N G

Like a sacred relic, drawing pilgrims to its altar. Pipeline’s lure is easily recognizable, even at a distance.

Photo - Brian Bielmann

F R E E S U R F

V O L U M E

1 8

# 2

Maldives deep bliss

Subscribe!

Kaulana Apo

Photo: Ryan "Chachi" Craig

V19N2 Free in Hawai'i

Editorial

Pacifc Islands

Publisher

West Coast Distribution & Sales

Mike Latronic

Chuck Hendsch (619) 227-9128

Editor

East Coast Distribution

Andrew Oliver

Eastern Surf Supply (808) 638-7395

Photo Director Brian Bielmann

Wholesale Inquiries & Hawai‘i Distribution (808) 638-7395

Art Director John Weaver

Staff Shooters Brent Bielmann, Mike Latronic, Andrew

Business Administration

Oliver, John Weaver, Jake Zielinski

Cora Sanchez (808) 638-7395 Contributing Writers Rebecca Parsons, Jenn Tokin

Account Executive

Indo

and more!

Handpicked surf adventures since 1997 Reservation Specialist

Sean Walker sean@worldsurfaris.com (877) 617-1328

www.worldsurfaris.com

Bert Valdez Annie Sutter

Contributing Photographers Alex Heil, Dooma Photos, Dayanidhi

Distribution Manager

Das, Kurt Steinmetz, Mike Ito, Nick

Jamie Baradaran

Gruen, Ryan Miller, Tommy Pierucki, Eric Baeseman, Ryan “Chachi” Craig, Christa

Follow us on social media

Funk, Sarah Lee, Sean Evans, Tai Vandyke

@freesurfmag FREESURF MAGAZINE is distributed at all most fine surf shops and select specialty stores throughout Hawai‘i, Southern California, and the East Coast. Subscribe at freesurfmagazine. com Other than “Free Postage” letters, we do not accept unsolicited editorial submissions without first establishing contact with the editor. FreeSurf, Manulele Inc. and its associates are not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged submissions or their return.

One-way correspondence can be sent to P.O. Box 1161, Hale‘iwa, HI 96712 E-mail editorial inquiries to info@freesurfmagazine.com A product of Manulele, Inc. 2020

C O V E R

S T O R Y

By Andrew Oliver

KAULANA APO, PIPELINE Photo - Ryan “Chachi” Craig

One of the great things about surfing is the democratic nature of the pursuit. Even the most prestigious venues are essentially open to all. And, while this month’s surfer featured on the cover, Kaulana Apo, is far from a novice, he’s not one of the first names you’d associate with snagging the wave of the day at one of the most illustrious waves on the planet - Pipeline. Apo was a top junior who used to spar with the likes of Imaikalani DeVault, Benji Brand, Koa Smith, and the Moniz Brothers. As it does for many of us, surfing took a back seat to life for some time for Apo, but in the last year he’s been as psyched as ever, and clearly finding his old form. These days, Apo is actually roommates with his gromhood friend Seth Moniz and the reignited passion has been contagious, inspiring Moniz to put in more water time than he has in years. In an effort to keep the cover a surprise to Apo until the magazine goes to print, we reached out to Seth and Josh Moniz for this month's cover story. Seth was in Tahiti on a last minute strike mission and sent a few enthusiastic texts, so Josh summed up their excitement for their dear friend finding his way on to page one.

Hey Josh, we wanted to keep this cover to be a surprise for Kaulana until it comes out in print, so I was hoping I could do something in the meantime with you and Seth - but Seth’s in Tahiti.

Sick! When you first texted me, I opened up the text and saw the cover shot, and I was actually with him.

Oh no. Really?

I was with him. And I was like, “Oh my god,” just freaking out.

It’s the best cover shot I've seen in a while. It looks so sick.

Did he figure it out?

No, he has no idea. <laughs> So I hear Kaulana is living with Seth, is that correct?

Yeah. We first met him on the westside when he was like six or seven.

And, he was just everyone's favorite surfer from that point. When we got a bit older he didn't stop surfing, but he kind of went and did his own thing. But this year, we really reconnected in our friendship and he moved into Seth’s and he's been putting Seth on the craziest program.

All they do is surf and train, and they're having the most fun. He's been surfing so well. So to see him get the cover, I'm so happy for him. It's been like six months for him, like proper surfing again. And he’s already got the cover. That's insane.

It's good to have people in your life that recharge your amp to surf.

And it sounds like as he’s finding his stoke again, that it's rubbing off on you guys too, you know?

For sure. That's one of the biggest bummers that I can't surf. (Josh is still rehabbing from his injuries suffered during a freak accident surfing in Portugal over the summer). Because he's so psyched to surf all the time, this is probably the most I've seen Seth surf in a while and it’s because of Kaulana. They're in the water all day.

Hopefully, he's not gonna see this cover until it comes out in print. What do you think his reaction is gonna be when he sees the cover?

I don't know if he ever got a FreeSurf cover when he was younger? He might have?

Growing up, that's all we waited for was the latest FreeSurf magazine. It’s the sickest thing for him to get a cover. And in just like six months back of really surfing, and he gets his first Pipeline, legit cover, he's gonna be tripping. I can't wait.

An ambush surf contest series celebrating ordinary surfers everywhere. sunbum.com/bumrushtour

TA B L E

O F

C O N T E N T S

6

Free Parking

32 Aperture

10

Cover Story

46

HIC Pro

16

Editor's Note

54

Da Hui Backdoor Shootout

18

A Hero Emerges

62

Industry Notes

26

Smile Wave

66

Last Look

Kainehe Hunt

HIC Pipe Pro Finalist Photo: WSL/Bielmann

M7 Model by Kerry Tokoro: 6’8” X 19” X 2.4” Ala Moana Center - Street Level 1, Ewa Wing & Level 3, Diamond Head Wing

www.hicsurf.com

F E AT U R E S

18 A Hero Emerges

32 Aperture

42 HIC Pro

66 Da Hui Backdoor Shootout

MO RE S E C U R I T Y NO D I STR A C TI O NS

THE

HYDRO WANDERER BOARDSHORT

ELI OLSON O’N E I L L I N C. 2022 | U S .O N E I L L .CO M

S H O P T H E H Y P E R F R E A K H Y D R O WA N D E R E R B O A R D S H O RT AT T H E S E PA RT I C I PAT I N G R E TA I L E R S : H I C – T & C S U R F S H O P – D E J AV U S U R F – H I -T E C H S P O RT S – S U R F N S E A – O S H I M A S U R F – L O C A L M O T I O N

E D I T O R ' S

B Y

N O T E

A N D R E W

O L I V E R

It has been one of those seasons when the North Shore has taken its sweet old time to awaken from its yearly slumber. There were fits and starts of action, flickers of brilliance, and teasing moments of what this blessed coastline is truly capable of. But come the New Year, the surf gods had finally put the swell machine into full-throttle. The timing couldn’t have been better, as the world's best surfers have once again descended on the North Shore like a pack of famished hyenas. The Vans Digital Triple Crown has become the new lens under which the North Shore freesurf performances have been magnified, but knowing how high the bar had been raised by the likes of John John and Carissa in last year’s event, competitors knew all too well that winning rides were not possible unless the surf is pumping. For the first two weeks of the event window it was decidedly not.

Yet since the change of the calendar, unlike most of us with our New Year's resolutions, the surf has been consistently showing up. And, we’re all the better from it. For us mortals, with the surf aplenty, we have had ample opportunity to get our sessions in between the demands of modern life. For the surf elite, the timing of the long run of epic conditions coincided with the two unique surf events that make the most of ample surf - Da Hui Backdoor Shootout and The Vans Digital Triple Crown. At press both events are in full swing, and it is still anyone's guess as to who will come out on top. What has been revealed is that these events afford their competitors, through their open formats, the freedom to go beyond seeking a singular title or victory. And, to really challenge their own personal boundaries in some of the world's most incredible surf. When we get stuck in a utopic “Groundhog Day” of perfect waves, and the world's best are pushing the envelope on a daily basis, that's when things get interesting, that's when this place comes alive.

You don’t need to be living at the cutting edge to feel that energy. Whether you're pushing your own limits, however modest or ambitious, or simply a fan, you can feel yourself a part of the deep bliss that emanates from the Seven Mile Miracle.

Photo: Brent Bielmann

16

KEANU ASING

AL A M OA N A C E N T E R | KO KO M A R I N A HYATT R E G E N CY WA I K I K I

|

|

W I N DWA R D M A L L

L A H A IN A GAT E WAY

|

|

WA IK EL E C E N T ER

H U N T I N GTO N B EAC H , CA

“SURFING WITH ALOHA SINCE 1977”

Perfectly poised for the next chapter of his career. Imai at Pipeline.

Photo - Brian Bielmann

emerges A hero

Maui’s Imaikalni deVault has stealthily climbed his way to the elite Championship Tour, and may just be the most exciting new talent in professional surfing.

By Andrew Oliver Pre-social media, 24 year old Imaikalani deVault’s ascension to the elite World Tour this past November, would have been one of the most highly anticipated events in surfing. Back in the days when major surf film releases and print magazines determined the sway of surf culture with a near monopoly of influence, deVault would have been a media darling. His unique juxtaposition of stylishly explosive surfing and elusive vibe would have been perfect fodder for the cultural gatekeepers of yesteryear. For better or worse, those days have long since passed. Today, any hype that hopes to break through the froth must be self-produced. And deVault is not one to toot his own horn.

Launching on the home turf.

Photo - Dayanidhi Das

S

tories of freshly qualified rookies wildly celebrating their graduation to the big leagues abound. Stumbling into their debut events looking worse for the wear and having an early loss serve as the bitter pill to sober up by. So, I was surprised to catch deVault for this interview on New Years Eve, no less, taking it decidedly easy. Understandably so, as his even-keel demeanor doesn't fit the brash young-pro stereotype.

But, there is a lot to deVault that doesn’t fit the mold. In recent years, surfing at the highest level on the Championship Tour has become increasingly athletic and acrobatic - to what some purists say at the expense of style and flow - deVault flips that trend on its head. While possessing as broad of an arsenal of hi-fi maneuvers as any young pro, deVaults surfing is deeply rooted in a subtle power. Reminiscent of Curren, deVualt’s surfing is void of unnecessary movement. He stylishly links his turns and is economical with moments that veer into being out of control.

Paradoxically, all the while doing some of the most radical surfing you’ve ever seen. The question of how this translates onto the World Tour will shortly be answered. There is the one school of thought that some surfers are punished for being too stylish as they make it look too easy.

However, there is a versatility and explosiveness in deVault’s surfing that could break through this critique. There was a time when John John’s surfing didn’t fit the mold too, and he went on to redefine what the mold is. It could soon be deVaults time to do the same.

20

YOUR NORTH SHORE REAL ESTATE RESOURCE

KARIN MOODY

Realtor, Owner, Principle Broker RB-19578

808.392.7410

MEME MOODY

NOEL MARCHAN

MICHAEL PIEKLO

808.741.3835

808.282.0949

808.551.6740

Realtor, Broker-In-Charge RB-22780

Realtor-Associate RS-73977

Realtor-Associate RS-79930

Let us share our local knowledge with you! Servicing all of Oahu, specializing in North Shore properties. Stop by our office at the Haleiwa Store Lots for a free market analysis, and meet our North Shore Real Estate Experts. Call ahead for reserved parking!

TRISH KIM

JUSTIN CENTEIO

808.221.4200

808.220.4685

Realtor-Associate RS-80643

Realtor-Associate RS-82219

ALEKSANDRA MARTINS Realtor-Associate RS-79671

NATHAN AMATORE Realtor-Associate RS-83694

808.979.5611 808.780.2381

BETTERHAWAII.COM 808-637-1500 | HALEIWA STORE LOTS 66-111 KAMEHAMEHA HWY., UNIT #902, HALEIWA, HI 96712 ©2021 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty North Shore. Better Homes and Gardens® is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. An Independently Owned and Operated Franchise. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty North Shore are affiliates of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty.

Coming into the last challenger Series event of the year at Hale’iwa, there were quite a few surfers who had the potential to qualify. You seemed fairly at ease for being on “The bubble”. Did you know you were pretty much qualified at that point?

Yeah, it wasn't 100% official. There was a really small likelihood that I wouldn't make it. But, it was like 95% certain.

You've been trying to qualify for a few years, what clicked for you this year?

I've definitely been on the QS grind for a few years now. I think maybe the difference this year is being older and having a bit more experience. The QS is just so gnarly, I remember going into it right out of school thinking like, “Oh, I can do this for sure.” and just getting whooped, I realized, “Holy crap, this is gnarly.”

The COVID break was unfortunate, but in a way it was almost helpful because it gave me a year at home. I was working with my coach Pedro Robalinho here, not knowing when we were gonna compete again, but staying ready. All that time at home definitely helped me improve in a lot of ways.

Coming into this year with the new format, it was just four events on the Challenger Series held consecutively. And, I thought it was sick to have them all back to back - and with fewer events. If you had one solid result that just made your chances way more likely than before. And, I got that big result in Portugal, which was super sick.

“It's super sick to see the

whole community, behind me, supporting me, and

how psyched they are for

me. It's definitely tight knit over here on Maui, and

we're all pushing for each other to succeed.”

Photo - Brian Bielmann

It must have been nice to have the events consolidated in one part of the year instead of just being on an endless grind?

Yeah! We're traveling for a few months straight, but usually you're gone throughout the year, maybe you're home for two weeks, then you're on the road again, and it's kind of nonstop. This was definitely a cool new format that I enjoyed.

Throughout the year, and in that event in Portugal in particular, it looked like you had such confidence in your surfing. Watching you surf, I’m imagining that you’re thinking, “I'm gonna go for this maneuver. And I'm pulling this, 100% percent, no questions.” That's what it looked like from afar. Do you kind of feel that?

I definitely felt that way too. Going back to what I was saying about the training over the last year, I was constantly surfing, watching footage, really getting to know all of my equipment, which helped with my confidence, for sure. Because going into the Challenges Series, I was 100% confident that I can do it this year. Like, “This is gonna be your easiest chance. You have four events, just get one or two big results, and you're basically there.” So, I was super confident and things felt like they were clicking.

My struggles before were not getting the right waves, falling a lot, not being a hundred percent confident, and just being nervous. This year things were happening easily. It seemed like I wasn't really trying. And I think that mindset I had, of believing that I can do it, definitely showed this year more than it ever has before.

You're a really versatile surfer, and you seem to perform in just about any type of conditions. So, what were some of the things that you saw as your weaknesses that you wanted to focus on?

Mahalo for Drinking Responsibly. ©2021 Kona Brewing Hawaii Photo: Mike Latronic

Catch aWave!

Big Wave is a lighter-bodied golden ale with a tropical hop aroma and flavor—smooth, easy drinking, and refreshing. The use of caramel malt contributes to the golden hue of this beer, and our special blend of hops provides a bright, quenching finish that makes it a struggle to not grab another one.

Kona Pub & Brewery 74-5612 Pawai Place, Kailua-Kona @KonaBrewPub 808-334-2739

Kona Brewing HawaiiKai 7192 Kalaniana’ole Highway, Honolulu @KonaBrewingHawaiiKai 808-396-5662

I would say my main focus and what I was really trying to improve was finishing my waves and not falling as much. That was something we've been working on a lot. Maybe not going so hard all the time, which was kind of how I always wanted to surf. And that was hurting me in a way for a few years, competition wise. And, the mental side of competing was where I was trying to improve the most.

And, grinding it out in smaller waves. The QS is typically in waves like that. So, improving my small wave beach break style surfing, which I think I've done. But, now I gotta go back to focusing on good waves. Which is awesome.

I'm almost glad I didn't qualify at 19 because I definitely was a lot skinnier then. I think over the last two years, I've really filled out more. I've been training and getting stronger. I was really working on the power surfing side of things. At one point I felt like I got the airs and all that. But, I needed to improve on power surfing. I knew I was capable, but I just wasn't really ever thinking about it before. So, that's definitely been one of my bigger improvements over the last two years. Filling out, getting stronger, and putting that into my rail surfing.

Comfortably hidden just out of sight.

Photo - Brian Bielmann

And it looks like your equipment's working really well. Maybe talk a little bit about your relationship with your shaper, Keith Teboul, of KT Surfboards. It must be cool for you to have a shaper who’s from Maui as well.

Keith’s a legend, and I've been working with him for about five years. And, during this time that I was home over the past year, I was really working with him closely. I feel like he's always been really, he's got really good boards for the standard Hawai’i size waves, with his step-ups and all that.

So we were really dialing in on a QS quiver, grovel boards. And, I feel he's improved a lot in the past year, just from us working together so closely.

He's got such crazy technology and equipment coming from his windsurf shaping - all the carbon and epoxy and vacuum seals. He's the real deal, our equipment is crazy good right now, and he just keeps improving. It’s gonna be sick to be riding his boards on the CT, and to give him more of a global stage for people to see his equipment, because he definitely deserves it.

24

TY SIMPSON-KANE

hitechsurf

808-877-7750

Maui is such an epicenter of talent. What's it like being a part of that, but still being a bit removed from, you know, “The scene,” on Oahu.

It's maybe not as easy for kids from the outer islands to really get that recognition or that chance to blow up. But, Maui has so much talent and it always has. When I was a kid, the guys I would surf with on a daily basis we're some of the best in the world. Like Dusty Payne, Clay Marzo, Albe and Meola.

Honestly it's crazy that more guys from Maui haven't qualified, because there's definitely a lot of guys worthy that should have been there. But, it's super rad to be only the second guy from Maui to qualify.

Wow, that's crazy. It’s hard to believe it's only been Dusty and yourself.

There've been guys that've been close like over the years that just never did it. But, it's super sick to see the whole community, behind me, supporting me, and how psyched they are for me. It's definitely tight-knit over here on Maui and we're all pushing for each other to succeed.

Hopefully you'll start the trend and there'll be more Maui surfers making it onto the Dream Tour soon.

I think there will be. I'm definitely not gonna be the last guy from here to make it.

What are some of the spots, I guess that you're most excited to, um, compete at and like, are there any waves on the tour that you haven't visited before?

That's funny. I was just talking about that. Um, there's a lot of the waves on the CT I've never been to or surfed before. I've never been to Bell’s or Margaret River. And, those are the two stops before the midyear cut that I've never been to. And, I'm super excited to surf those waves. They’re both rights with kind of similar vibes to Hawai’i - at least from what I’ve always heard and seen. So I’m super excited to go there. And then in the back half of the year, if you make the midyear cut, there's those waves I'm super excited for: J Bay, G-Land and Teahupo’o. I've never been to either.

“This year things were happening easily.

It seemed like I wasn't really trying. And I think that mindset I had, of believing that I can do it, definitely showed this year more than it ever has before.”

Photo - Dayanidhi Das

26

Your Kailua Surf Shop

Ezra Clark

Photo: Nalumonphotography

Grom or grown, we got the gear you need.

Gnarwall Surf Shop 315 Uluniu St, Kailua, HI 96734 (808) 492-1000 kailuasurfshop.com

Full steam ahead in ‘22 Photo - Dayanidhi Das

So, this is like a personal “dream tour.” You’ll be checking things off the wishlist.

Yeah.

The mid-year cutoff, the WSL has brought it back. You gotta deal with that first year in, but at least I guess they've made it so the Challenger Series is stacked to the back end of the year, correct?

Yeah. You have five events to stay on tour by finishing in the top twenty. Then it's the cut, and the Challenger Series starts in the summer. So if you do fall off, you have the chance to just go straight back to that challenge series, but hopefully not. That back half of the CT is sick.

There have been some major changes to the schedule and format, but I guess the silver lining for you is you get to start your rookie year at home in Hawai’i, on two waves you’re familiar with - Pipe and Sunset.

Sunset, Pipe, and then Bells and Margarets are all waves that I feel suit me well. So, I definitely have no excuse to not requalify. I just gotta make some heats.

n a c i x e M t s e B s ’ Ha waii

Restaurant & Margarita Bar

Located in the North Shore Marketplace 66250 Kamehameha Highway Haleiwa, Hawaii 96712

808-637-3059 www.CHOLOS.mx

Finn McGill Photo: Latronic/Freesurf

Authentic Mexican Favorites

Island Fresh Fish Tacos Refreshing Margaritas Open Everyday 10:30 am - 9:00 pm Happy Hour: 4-6 pm M-F - Food & Drink Specials

Dine-in or Take-out!

Muchos Mahalos to all our loyal customers for your patronage!

Smile Wave Fund Interview with Adelin Coigny By Mike Latronic

Born in Switzerland, Smile Wave Funds founder Adelin Coigny is a family man, a surfer and philanthropist. His family and passion for the ocean are two things that mean the most to him.

Initially an active volunteer in other environmental organizations, Coigny decided to create the Smile Wave Fund. The mission: “The earth is formed of a series of ecosystems that depend on each other, reminding us that the whole of mankind depends on this fragile equilibrium. Let’s preserve this planet and its inhabitants.”

Adelin Coigny: “Pua DeSoto is our ambassador athlete here in Hawai'i. She is a beautiful young woman but more than that she's just got so much energy around her. A talented surfer but she is outgoing and she is a real inspiration. She really represents

What is Smile Wave Fund?

Adelin Coigny: Well, it’s a charity. Founded in 2016 Smile Wave Fund is philanthropy aimed at supporting projects related to social integration and environmental protection.

What inspired you and your team to undertake this mission?

Adelin Coigny: The places where SWF is active are the different places that I had the chance to visit as a surfer. I realized several things. First, the surfing destinations I went traveling with my family or with my friends, I considered as paradise. But I also realized we were kind of disconnected to the social reality of the places we were in because obviously when we were looking for some places to go surfing, we're going some remote places. And we come there with our money, our surfboards, we have a great time for a week or two and then we just leave. It’s like, “Thank you very much.” So I thought we could maybe do something for the people who we are visiting. I just suddenly realized that are getting more and more disconnected to the land and the ocean that we actually rely on. I mean if I had to summarize it in one sentence actually I think humans have to be reminded that they are part of the environment and part of the animal kingdom too. I’m talking about about biodiversity and this is something that people forget.

wise figure heads in Hawai'i and surf culture today. Coigny went on to add, “Smile Wave will also be very proud and honored to present the next edition of the Buffalo Big Board Classic.”

Adelin Coigny“This is something that I find key and very important whether you call them NGOs or charity projects or whatever but to help orchestrate that they can work together for the same objective. If you want to build a house you need an architect, you need a plumber, a carpenter, a painter, but they have to work together during the same time.

the Hawaiian culture in a way because they are hard working, very smart, highly educated, determined, I mean, I would say a warrior or mindset, but in a very friendly personality. As an ambassador she represents exactly what I'd like to share.”

W

e also support existing projects that help preserve our planet and our people. In Hawai'i we support the - Searider Productions, Ma’o Organic farms, Na Kama Kai and Ho’oma’a Foundation.“

And this is where I give a lot of credit to Hawaiian culture. This is something I really love. The first time I visited Hawai'i was 12 years ago and I could feel through the Hawaiian culture an importance for taking care or “malama,” the land and the ocean was key to surviving. And this is something we actually tend to forget in our modern culture.

It’s noteworthy that the last two organizations supported by Smile Wave Fund are headed up by Duane De Soto and Brian Keaulana respectively. These two people are arguably among the most dynamic, conscientious and

Smile Wave Fund supports select ambassadors and in Hawai'i Pua DeSoto embodies the kind of human that’s “just right” to help deliver the message.

30

And so with a lot of humility, because I'm trying to do a metaphor here, but still, I would consider Smile Wave Fund as an architect – An architect trying to build a better world. And we're trying to put people together under the same roof to work towards the same objective.”

A

P

E

R

T

Balaram Stack, Pipeline Photo - Brent Bielmann

U

R

E

34

Ivan Florence, Rocky Point Photo - Brian Bielmann

Conner Coffin, Hale’iwa Photo - Brian Bielmann

Honolua Blomfield, Ehukai Photo - Ryan “Chachi” Craig

Finn McGill, Backdoor Photo - Ryan “Chachi” Craig

Kai Paula, Maui Photo - Dayanidhi Das

Nathan Florence, Log Cabins Photo - Brian Bielmann

42

Koa Rothman, Pipeline Photo - Brent Bielmann

Mikey O’Shaughnessy, Backdoor Photo - Ryan “Chachi” Craig

N E W

&

E V E N T S

Pipeline Powerhouses Moana Wong and John John Florence Win The HIC Pipe Pro

The HIC Pipe Pro, the final event of the WSL’s Hawai'i Regional Qualifying Series, went off in epic conditions, crowning two of Pipeline’s best, John John Florence and Moana Jones, as the Men’s and Women’s Champions respectively. While the favorites took the top honors, the event showcased Hawai’is deep talent pool, including emerging groms, outer island talent, Pipeline specialists, and World Tour stars, putting in major performances at the world’s premiere reef break. Some major highlights include; Ivan Florence’s dominant surfing throughout the event punctuated by his 10 point ride in the quarterfinals, Kauai’s underground making it to the big stage with Brianna Cope and Kainehe Hunt both slotting themselves final finishes, and John John Florence continuing his winter dominance by maintaining a 100% victory rate in contests so far this North Shore season.

As the HIC Pipe Pro enjoyed one of the first real Pipe swells of the season, the sand on the beach had yet to be washed away so spectators enjoyed a front row seat to the action. Photo - Brian Bielmann

NATE TYLER | BORN ON CALIFORNIA'S CENTRAL COAST CHECK OUT MORE AT 805BEER.COM

John John Florence displaying his winning form on finals day. Photo: Brian Bielmann

Kainehe Hunt made his versatility evident. From the scrappy surf in the early rounds to threading barrels on finals day, the Kauai youngster surfed brilliantly all the way through. Photo: WSL / Keoki

Does a more picturesque event site exist? Photo: WSL / Keoki

Kainehe Hunt Photo: WSL / Keoki

48

TIDE FOR A gooD TIME.

THE PERFECT

OFFICIAL WSL LONGBOARD SPONSOR JOSE CUERVO® TEQUILA. 40% ALC./VOL. (80 PROOF). TRADEMARKS OWNED BY BECLE, S.A.B. DE C.V. AND JC MASTER DISTRIBUTION LIMITED. ©2021 PROXIMO, JERSEY CITY, NJ. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

Barron Mamiya found himself in another Pipeline final. The young North Shore local is one of the best Pipeline surfers in the world, and it's only a matter of time before he walks away with a win. Photo: WSL / Keoki Shion Crawford Photo: WSL / Keoki

The view from the judges tower. WSL / Keoki

Ivan Florence charging hard. Photo: WSL / Keoki

FOR THE LONG RIDE...

FIND RAINBOW® SANDALS AT THESE RETAILERS SURF N SEA, HAWAII SURF AND SAIL, BARNFIELDS RAGING ISLE, POIPU SURF, BACKDOOR SURF, FUNCTION SURF, FLIP FLOP SHOPS WAIKIKI INTERNATIONAL MARKETPLACE, ALOHA BOARD SHOP, LAHAINA SUNGLASS CO, ALOHA EXCHANGE, ISLAND HEMP & COTTON CO, ADVENTURE SPORTS MAUI. PATAGONIA HALEIWA, PATAGONIA HONOLULU, BILLABONG HANALEI,FLIP FLOP SHOPS KAUAI, KAI ALOHA, WORLD CORE AND KIHEI PARADISE.

W W W. R A I N B O W S A N D A L S . C O M

Womens Results First Place - Moana Wong Second Place - Brissa Hennessy Third Place - Gabriela Bryan Fourth Place - Brianna Cope

Photo: Mike Latronic

Mens Results First Place - John John Florence Second Place - Barron Mamiya Third Place - Ivan Florence Fourth Place - Kainehe Hunt

Photo: Brian Bielmann

HIC Pipe Pro Champions Moana Wong and John John Florence

CONGRATULATIONS MOANA WONG HIC PIPE PRO WOMENS CHAMPION

Order Online freesurfmagazine.com

N E W

&

E V E N T S

DA HUI BACKDOOR SHOOTOUT If you were to poll surf competitors about which events they most look forward to, especially those with an infatuation for Pipeline, Da Hui Backdoor Shootout would easily be at the top of the list. Through the years, Da Hui Backdoor Shootout has consistently delivered some of the most incredible moments at the infamous peak, with this year being no exception. What separates Da Hui Backdoor Shootout from the wide majority of contests, besides the choice location, is the somewhat freewheeling surfer friendly format, that allows the competitors maximum time in the water during the best conditions possible. While Da Hui Backdoor Shootout crowns an individual champion, it adheres to a team format, with teams of four surfing together at Pipeline for numerous heats while they accumulate their scores. This year teams represented a who’s who of local Pipeline chargers along with international representation from Peru and Japan, along with a first ever women's team. Every team was stacked, but on paper, one of the most anticipated teams was the Snapt crew, consisting of Mason Ho, Barron mamiya, Parker Coffin, and Benji Brand. So it was no surprise that they walked away with both the team and individual titles, with Mason winning top honors, in some of the best waves in the event's history.

The Proving Grounds, The Banzai, Pipeline, Pipe, whatever you call it no wave inspires more awe.

Photo - Brent Bielmann

John John Florence on an absolute bomb from the first day of the event. Photo - Brent Bielmann

A long pattern of rainy weather had Pipe and Backdoor looking like the infamous Mexican beachbreaks that ignite in the summer south swells. Whatever the look, Billy Kemper is no stranger to threading gnarly tubes.

Photo - Mike Latronic

Makua Rothman, always a standout in heavy surf, looked into a solid one at Backdoor.

Photo - Mike Latronic

Moana Jones, a member of the first ever women’s team in Da Hui Backdoor Shootout, doing her team proud on a gem of a Pipe wave.

Photo - Mike Latronic

56

The Original Lifestyle & Culture Smoke Shop

Model : Daniella Mendoza Photographer : 3rdphocal.com

Eli Olson, full throttle in a Backdoor cavern.

Photo - Brian Bielmann

With the speed and intensity of the waves at Pipeline there's no time for premeditation. Nathan Florence riding on instinct.

Photo - Brent Bielmann

Guardians of Stoke, Makua and Eddie Rothman Photo - Brent Bielmann

Best Wave Winner, Kala Grace Photo - Brian Bielmann

Helping Haleiwa’s community find their individual internal healing sources.

Mixed combination of modalities to help others stay in the game day after day. Assisted stretching, visualization, breathing, Swedish, deep tissue, shiatsu, reiki and more.

Lifeguards discounted // North Shore Lifeguards // You have my back, I’ve got yours.

50% off!

Island Heal

Instagram: cgiles808 Email: cgiles808@gmail.com Phone:(808)348-4490 By appointment only 66-590 Kamehameha Hwy 96712 House visits available upon request

Keala Kennelly, Moana Wong, Bethany Hamilton and

Mason Ho and Team Snapt4 Benji Brand Mason Ho (Da Hui Backdoor Shootout Champion) Winners of the Team Division Photo: Brian Bielmann

Mason Ho (1st), John Florence (3rd) and Balaram Stack (2nd). Photo: Brian Bielmann

In 100% Microplastic Free, Fully

Biodegradable & Compostable Eco Jars.

MAUI, HAWAII • #OCEANLAKERIVERSAFE

MOKU Rider / Tattoo Artist: Brian Rudd Photo Darrin Miyashiro

ph: Baeseman

RENTALS • LESSONS • SALES

MAHALO FOR BEING A CONSCIOUS CONSUMER.

deep bliss Kaulana Apo

i" Craig

Photo: Ryan "Chach

V19N2 Free in Hawai'i

Subscribe and never miss an issue.

Packed with amazing images and stories, get the pure stoke of surfing delivered to your door every month!

Now four convenient locations...

Waikiki, Hale’iwa, Long Beach NY, Playa Jobos, Isabela, PR

www.mokuhawaii.surf

I N D U S T RY N OT E S JAC K R O B I N S O N I S S TA B I N T H E DA R K ’ S S U R F E R

Photo Mike Latronic

H A P PY 5 0 T H TO T H E G OAT Happy Birthday to 11x World Champion and the GOAT! We think it’s safe to say that no one has made 50 look this good. We also think it’s safe to say that Kelly Slater for the last 50 years has shaped surfing and the industry as a whole more than any other surfer in history. Even if you’re some rando from Kansas who’s never seen a surfboard in real life, chances are you probably still know who Kelly Slater is, and that speaks volumes. From the era of painting his Quiksilver logo on the nose of his board all the way to winning 11 World Titles, to launching Slater Designs and Outerknown, to hosting epic contests at his Surf Ranch, Kelly has been and always will be the goat. Happy Birthday Kelly, you make 50 look as easy as you make surfing look.

The Australian hammer himself, Jack Robinson, has been taking full advantage of this season’s offerings from winter on Oahu, and is now taking advantage of his opportunity as Stab’s Surfer for “Stab In The Dark” where he’s been testing a series of 12 unknown boards with different colored noses for his feature, ‘TIMESTAMPS’. Other elite surfers who have held this honor previously include; Julian Wilson, Dane Reynolds, Jordy Smith, Mick Fanning, and Taj Burrow. Previous winning shapers include; DHD, Pyzel, …Lost, Channel Islands, and Sharpeye. So, it’s really a no-brainer that Jack Robinson would be more than stoked to be a part of this epic, double-blind surfboard test.

C A I T Y S I M M E R S T U R N S D OW N C T S P OT In recent news, 16 year-old hammer, Caity Simmers, has taken the road less traveled just like Taj Burrow and has turned down a spot on the 2022 WSL Championship Tour. This past year, Caity has proved that she’s talented enough to qualify for the Tour on her own merit, however, this upcoming year her focus is geared towards freesurfing, making edits, having fun and landing more epic airs. Stoked to see what 2022 has in store for this talented young gun.

O ’ N E I L L B R OT H E R H O O D P I C K S U P B R OT H E R Going into 2022, it looks like the O’Neill Brotherhood just got bigger.. literally. Welcoming Brother, Kolohe Andino, to the team means we should be seeing some big things from this stacked unit this year.

Nothing describes this powerhouse of a surfer better than being ‘first in and last out’ so we’re psyched to see this more than fitting sponsorship go down. Congrats Brother!

SURF EXPO IS A GO!

Z E K E L AU - TO T H E FAC E

This year's January Surf Expo, located in Orlando, Florida, was a go!

Mahalo to the Surf Expo team as well as Body Glove for sponsoring and putting on an epic show this year. There was an awesome turnout of vendors, buyers, and athletes that all got to enjoy spreading the stoke of working in the best industry around. This year held a ton of excitement with events such as the shop skate contest, Vissla’s surfboard shape-off, a guest appearance from the GOAT, happy hour beer gardens, an industry party with live music from Seranation and free beer.. So we think it’s safe to say Surf Expo and Body Glove showed up and handled this year's show and we can’t wait to be back in September!

Early last month just as Pipeline started to really show its terrifying beauty with the outer reefs finally breaking, Hawai'i powerhouse - Zeke Lau, took his board to the face on a consequential day on North Shore.

Mahalo to the North Shore Lifeguard Association for always taking care of our men and women who constantly test the human limits. We’re happy to say Zeke should make a full recovery without any substantial issues other than a gnarly face laceration, heal up soon Zeke!

62

Mokulele Surf Team Rider

Makana Franzman

128 Daily Inter-Island Flights!

The Best Way to Surf More Hawai'i

Waikiki Beach Gathering @ Surf N Sea paddle up the Anahulu Stream and protected private bay. For many this event was their first introduction to kayaking or standup paddle boarding ever. Many spotted massive sea turtles and the most daring took breathtaking leaps off the rope tree swing half way up the river.

What brings people together more than free food and ocean sports? As families and surfers alike long for social interaction and unity during this global pandemic Freesurf Magazine saw this need.

On October 16th in partnership with Surf N Sea and the Waikiki Beach Gathering we hosted the first annual Back Yard Beach BBQ providing free lunch and

ocean sports for everyone in the community. Surf N Sea’s historic beachfront setting right next to Haleiwa’s Rainbow Bridge was the perfect spot for this event.

Dozens of local families jumped on the opportunity for free kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals and lessons from the experienced Surf N Sea staff. Children, dogs, and surfers all enjoyed swapping their boards for a pristine

Following free ocean activities, the Waikiki Beach Gathering led the free lunch giving away 400 mix plates and 800 water bottles to people in the community. The non-profit surf church served cheeseburgers fresh off the grill with mac salad and rice to complete the plate. What started as a buffet line turned into a drive

By Brady Arneson

thru restaurant when volunteers noticed the slowing traffic in front of the surf shop.

As Hawai’i’s surf magazine we desired to host a community outreach event to share the stoke and revive our island home right in our own back yard. Surfers and residents from all walks of life were brought together for this unifying and encouraging experience.

Special thanks to our own Mike Latronic, Surf N Sea’s Eddie Crawford, and the Waikiki Beach Gathering’s Jim Blewster for the inspiration behind this special day.

Get your G.O.A.T.

808.792.8333 “The danger is not aiming too high, but aiming low and reaching it.”

HIautoAccident.com

Meet your trusted local leaders in Hawai’i’s real estate industry.

SEAN YANO

JARED MUSSER

RS-61434

RS-83709

808.386.4487

808.497.0503

SEAN.YANO@COMPASS.COM

JARED.MUSSER@COMPASS.COM

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only.

808-792-8333

BE SUPERHUMAN CRYOTHERAPY INFRARED SAUNA NANOVI™ NORMATEC COMPRESSION THERAPY HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY

MASSAGE THERAPIES ACUPUNCTURE CUPPING THERAPIES FASCIAL STRETCH THERAPY HEALTH COACHING DETOX PROTOCOLS

R

Superhuman Health Technologies & Therapies Corner of 1001 Waimanu St. and Cummins St. in Kaka'ako - Honolulu | Tel.: 561-4734 | superhumanhi.com

Surf with a smile

Dr. John

Jones Dentistry

808 955 0058 1441 Kapiolani boulevard suite 907, honolulu, hawaii 96814

@freesurfmag

L A S T

L O O K

What's the point of surf photos in the first place? To inspire us. And what could be more inspiring than the pure, unadulterated fun of the 2022 Da Hui Backdoor Shootout Champion, Mason Ho, reveling in his moment at Pipeline.

Photo - Mike Latronic