You may have noticed the recent Surfline feature on the history, bathymetry and mechanics of the monster wave known as Teahupo’o in Tahiti. Buzz surrounding the wave is mounting as the Billabong Pro Tahiti draws near (Aug 20 is the estimated starting date). Scheduled to surf are the world’s top surf stars like, Kelly Slater, Taj Burrow, Jordy Smith, and Mick Fanning. But, a number of wildcards and locals will also be hungry to take the title. Since Teahupo’o is a notoriously heavy barrel, experience at this break may triumph over ability to pull technical maneuvers.

Teahupo’o is one of the most difficult waves to surf in the world, and the pronunciation of its name is somewhat proportional. Most pronounce the Tahitian name “cho-puu” often shortened to Chopes. Personally I’m not going to worry too much about how to say it, because the chances of me surfing there are almost zero (the chances that I would survive surfing there to pronounce the name are even lower). However, for the brave souls who do decide to surf massive Chopes, the reward can be glory, and unbelievable footage for the rest of us. Hopefully the contest will provide as much action as the wave has to offer, without too many painful wipeouts!

Check out this video of Laird Hamilton’s Historic tow-in at Teahupo’o

Will Dane Reynolds show up to this contest after opting out of J-Bay?

What do you think of Bobby Martinez’s decision to quit the tour?

Will anyone ever get a heavier barrel than Laird Hamilton’s 1999 “Oh-my-God” wave in 2000?

Drop a comment on our Facebook and let us know who you think will win this year!

Shakas

-Jason

Competition heats up as the swell dies down at the Jeffery’s Bay Pro presented by Billabong in South Africa.  Contest organizers and contestants remain optimistic about forecast conditions at the infamously perfect right hand point break. According to Surfline experts the size of the waves will remain contestable as the contest continues to run through the 24th of this month. According to J-Bay locals surf leading up to the event had been firing and consistent, which lives up to the legendary surf cliché, “you should have been here yesterday.”

The early round saw the defending champ and South African native Jordy Smith win over J-Bay local Sean Holmes. Also looking strong was the notoriously fast Mick Fanning. Competing in this year’s event is an all-star cast including Parko (Joel Parkinson), Taj Burrow, Adriano de Souza and several others who are in contention for a world title. Reigning world champ Kelly Slater did not make it to round 1 putting him in jeopardy of being ruled out of the contest if he does not make an appearance in round 2. Via twitter Slater reported:

kellyslater

Ooops…just watched my heat but I’m getting barreled off my face in Fiji. No disrespect towards @aspworldtour or @billabongpro . Small surf.

Also missing in action was California shredder Dane Reynolds who opted out of the event this year. Although no official reason has been announced, posts on his website make his recent knee surgery a likely culprit. For heat schedules and more coverage check out Billabong’s official website.

Do you think Slater will swoop in for his second heat?

Would you ever miss the opportunity to surf such a perfect wave?

Who do you think will claim victory in South Africa?

We’d love to know what you think, hit us up on Facebook or @twitter!

Shakas

-Jason