So, it’s on again.
The only big wave challenge that’s all about this special surf zone, the wild open coasts of Australia and New Zealand, and the special humans who ride ‘em. In the past eight years, Surfing Life’s Oakley Big Wave Awards have kicked down over $250,000 in cash and prizes to surfers and photographers without ever making anyone slip on a contest singlet or do heat drills.
All you’ve ever had to do was go hunting and bring back your quarry, and surprise surprise, everyone’s had a damn good time doing it. Those eight years have seen every boundary broken, never-ridden spots charged with all time bravado, and by far the biggest waves in Australasian history surfed. It’s had nothing to do with reputations and everything to do with being in the Spot at the right moment, usually with your mates cheering you on.
The ninth year sees our first true “year” – entries are open from any day after last season’s close-off of January 26, and will stay open till January 26, 2012. It also sees a new judging system that makes the Awards a one of a kind in the sport. We’ll be working on some new ways of telling the world about the small packs of flagrant chargers who live for the days when their corner of the great southern land turns into a sort of aquatic Colosseum.
But most of all, we look forward to seeing what the ocean throws forth in 2011/12, and which three classic characters get to take home the big prizes this time. Because you guys and your mad hunting instincts are our pride and joy.
Surf safe – but fucken deep.
Nick Carroll
Co-ordinator and head judge
