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Waimea Bay came to life last night with the ceremonial blessing of The Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational in Memory of Eddie Aikau, signaling the start to this year’s holding period that begins today and runs through February 28, 2007. This one-day surfing event, named after revered big-wave surfer and Waimea Bay lifeguard Eddie Aikau, will be held on one day when the waves reach a minimum height of 20 feet.

A huge crowd of elite big-wave riders, international media, Hawaii locals and visitors gathered at Waimea Bay Beach Park for the ceremony that concluded with a traditional paddle-out and circular “kuilima” (holding of hands). Among the circle of more than 50 friends, family and surfers were former Quiksilver Big Wave champion Clyde Aikau (Hawaii) – Eddie Aikau’s younger brother, eight-time world and former Big Wave event champion Kelly Slater, and Pearl Jam lead singer Eddie Vedder – a frequent Hawaii visitor, surfer and event supporter.

“I’d really like to thank everybody for allowing me to enter this sacred circle,” Vedder said at the ensuing benefit concert at Waimea Valley that raised funds for various local non-profit organizations including the North Shore Community Land Trust – a group dedicated to preserving North Shore lands.

“This will be a memory and a feeling that will stay with me for life. Long live Eddie.”

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(Story Source: Surfline)
(Photo Source: Eddie Aikau Foundation