THE EDDIE
Landon McNamara
Photo Brent Bielmann
WHEN the surf is pumping & the fish are biting and nothing else matters...
Gear matters.
FREE PARKING
The men and women invited to Eddie Aikau. Quite a lineup.
Photo Brian Bielmann
FOR THE LONG RIDE...
BILL FURY
HONOLUA BAY 1965
EDITORIAL
Editor / Publisher Mike Latronic
Photo Director
Brian Bielmann
Art Director John Weaver
Business Administration
Cora Sanchez (808) 260-9219
Sales Associate Keola Latronic
West Coast Distribution & Sales
Chuck Hendsch (619) 227-9128
Distribution & Advertising Inquiries mlatronic808@gmail.com
Staff Shooters
Brent Bielmann, Mike Latronic, John Weaver
Contributing Writers
Tor Johnson, Rebecca Parsons, Alexandra Kahn, Daniel Ikaika Ito, Nicole Nason, Amanda Blackwell, Kaea Latronic
Contributing Photographers
Christa Funk, Dooma Photos, Dayanidhi Das, Erik Aeder, Stu Soley, Mark Rodrigues, Aaron Lynton, Kurt Steinmetz, Mike Ito,Ryan Miller, Tommy Pierucki, Ryan “Chachi” Craig, Sean Evans, Tai Vandyke, Mitch McEwen,
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MAHALO 32 YEARS for
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUOUS SUPPORT AND FOR CREATING TIMELESS MEMORIES WITH US!
Landon McNamara is not your typical surfer nor your average human. Innately gifted with rhythm and flow, this talented surfer and musician was born and bred on Oahu’s North Shore. His mom is an uber talented bikini designer and his dad and one of his brothers, Makai, are massively talented surfers as well.
Following in his father Liam’s footsteps, Landon had long built a solid reputation for surfing, oftentimes grabbing the best bombs of the day at Pipe and other spots around the 7-Mile Miracle.
Somewhere between being a free spirited young surfer on the North Shore and becoming a legitimate rock star, the path of Landon McNamara was at times faster and more rocky than any young man should be expected to absorb. He’s had his share of highs and lows and more recently seems to be renewed in his appreciation of life, his good fortune, family and friends around him and of course the gifts of the ocean.
This cover shot by Brent Beilman was during the Eddie Aikau invitational and was one of several massive waves that contributed to his final victory. His “winning wave” in fact was a true beast. Large, girthy and late, Landon manhandled the drop and then leaned back into a massive explosion of whitewash only to miraculously emerge. And he did so victorious. He nailed it. It was nuts and so is this issue.
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Photo Mike Latronic
EDITOR'S NOTE
By Mike Latronic
With the consistent pulse of massive swells generated in the Pacific Northwest this season, I feel the need to talk about the unique humans who choose to chase and ride these huge ocean swells. The act of doing so is extremely fulfilling and thrilling but also very dangerous. The average homosapien would not dare enter the sea on a high surf advisory, so what propels these athletes to put themselves in such obvious and powerful danger? This special edition is filled with that conversation and the images that go with it.
As we editorialize this year's epic Vans Pipe Masters, the legendary Eddie Aikau event, the Mega Swell at Jaws or the waves of consequence of Pipeline at Da Hui’s Backdoor Shootout, the cast and characters involved all exist somewhere between “immensely passionate” and “sort of insane.” They live and breathe for the adrenal rush, more often than not laugh about their wipeouts, and generally arrange their whole life schedules around the next big purple blob on the radar map. It’s likely that they are not fully cognizant of their pathological tendencies yet the gargantuan waves will come and the seasoned maniacs will be there to ride them, or at least try.
This year's Eddie was epic. Former event director and legend, George Downing would have been proud with the call made by new director Liam McNamara. What started out as a relatively sleepy morning at Waimea Bay turned into a
collective bombfest by mid morning with just enough wash throughs to keep things very interesting. “Eddie Would Go,” and some of the contestants would even say he was there. It was “Super Sized Mana,” for the entire event.
On the island of Maui at Jaws things were equally if not more intense. With some of the biggest walls of water ever seen, documented or ridden, there were a handful of supercharged takers. The pictorial is just nuts, in fact I must shout out to our staff lensmen, Brian and Brent Beilmann and the awesome contributors in all these pages because there are just so many great images it's hard to pick a favorite.
The big wave energy kept flowing right through the early season making for massive days at the Backdoor Shootout, The Hale’iwa International and the free surfing in between.
In this issue we also have some cool profiles, for one, Ridge Lenny. Talent and bravado runs deep in that family and although Ridge’s brother Kai is a hard act to follow, the younger brother is coming into his own just fine.
We also have a soulful piece on one of the division winners from the Hale’iwa International, the ever talented Mr. Edrick Baldwin.
Lots to look at and lots to read. Enjoy.
Landon McNamara
ERIN BROOKS & NATHAN FLORENCE WIN 2024 VANS PIPE MASTERS
The Pipeline Masters, established in 1971 by former world surfing champion Fred Hemmings, is a prestigious annual surfing competition held at the Banzai Pipeline on Oahu's North Shore. Renowned for its powerful, hollow waves, Pipeline has long been considered one of the most challenging and revered surf spots globally. The event has been a cornerstone in professional surfing, attracting the world’s elite tube riders.
Erin Brooks
Photo Brent Bielmann
Initially, the Pipeline Masters was a standalone event. Over time, it became part of larger competitive series, notably the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, which also included events at Sunset Beach and Hale’iwa. This series celebrated the diverse and demanding surf breaks of Hawai’i’s North Shore. For many years, the Pipeline Masters was integrated into the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) circuit, which later evolved into the World Surf League (WSL). These affiliations elevated the event’s status, making it a critical component in determining world champions and influencing the professional surfing hierarchy.
In recent years, Vans and the WSL have parted ways regarding the Pipeline Masters. As a result, the event has transitioned into a specialty contest, allowing for more flexibility in its format and criteria. This shift has enabled organizers to experiment with new approaches, focusing on innovation and the core essence of surfing, rather than adhering strictly to traditional competitive structures.
The 2024 Vans Pipe Masters, held from December 8 - 20, showcased this evolution. The event featured a diverse field of surfers, including seasoned professionals and emerging talents, competing in varying conditions that highlighted Pipeline’s many faces. The competition was marked by a mix of northwest to west-northwest swells, offering both challenging and rewarding opportunities for the participants.
Alan Cleland Jr Photo Brent Bielmann
Bettylou Sakura Johnson Photo Brent Bielmann
Nathan Florence Photo Brent Bielmann
In the women’s division, 16-year-old Erin Brooks made history by becoming the youngest female champion of the Pipeline Masters. Her performance was characterized by remarkable commitment and skill, particularly evident in her comeback during the third heat, where she surpassed several renowned surfers to clinch the title. The men’s division witnessed a compelling narrative with Nathan Florence securing victory. Notably, Florence participated in the competition while simultaneously live-streaming his experience, providing a unique and personal perspective to his audience. His win was sealed in the final moments of the event, capitalizing on a favorable shift in wind and an increase in swell, allowing him to outperform competitors including his brother, Ivan Florence as well as Koa Smith.
With the absence of an official live stream, Nathan Florence’s personal broadcast garnered over 200,000 views, sparking discussions about the future of event coverage and the role of athletes in content creation.
The Vans Pipe Masters continues to honor its rich legacy while embracing change. The event’s willingness to adapt its format and presentation reflects a commitment to the progression of surfing culture. By focusing on the purity of the sport and the performance of athletes in one of the world’s most formidable waves, the Pipeline Masters maintains its status as a pinnacle of competitive surfing inspiring both participants and fans alike.
The 2024 event also stood out in its’ innovative coverage.
Koa Smith Photo Brent Bielmann
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Vans Pipe Masters Women’s Final Results
Erin Brooks (CAN): 37.80 points ($75,000)
Caity Simmers (USA): 22.00 points ($50,000)
Betty Lou Sakura-Johnson (HAW): 18.50 points ($25,000)
Moana Jones Wong (HAW): 16.50 points ($15,000)
Vans Pipe Masters Men’s Final Results
Nathan Florence (HAW): 42.00 points ($75,000)
Al Cleland Jr. (MEX): 21.70 points ($50,000)
Koa Smith (HAW): 7.70 points ($25,000)
Ivan Florence (HAW): 0.00 points ($15,000)
Photos Brent Bielmann
THE EDDIE
There were emotional scenes at Waimea Bay, as Landon McNamara won the prestigious ‘Rip Curl The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational’ in front of his father, and Contest Director, Liam McNamara.
The iconic big wave competition took place in monstrous 40+ feet surf, for just the eleventh time in its 40-year history.
Alongside taking the win, Landon won the Best Wave Award with a perfect score of 50 out of 50, and the honour of being the first ever goofy-footer to win the event.
Luke Shepardson Photo Brent Bielmann
Mason Ho
Photo Brian Bielmann
Koa Smith
Photo Brian Bielmann
Landon McNamara Photo Brent Bielmann
Nathan Florence and Nick Lamb
Photo Brian Bielmann
Kai Lenny
Photo Brian Bielmann
Kaʻapuni o Waimea Kauhale
Travel around or circuit through Waimea—In this self-guided tour, guests are led through three key cultural sites—Hale Hō‘ike, Kauhale, and Kahua Pā‘ani. At each site you will engage with a significant aspect of Waimea as well as Hawai‘i’s rich history.
During your kipa (visit) to our ‘āina (valley), you will gain invaluable knowledge on the impact of ho‘okipa (hospitality) to share kuleana and mālama. Upon completion of your ka‘apuni, you will earn a Ho‘okipa Cultural Ambassador Certificate, along with a unique Waimea Valley collectible pin.
Kahiko
Step into the sacred past through this new exhibit reconstructed on the archaeological remnants of a kauhale (structures comprised of several hale with specific functions) that existed here throughout Waimea Valley’s vast history. Learn more about the cultural significance that these dwellings provide for Kānaka Maoli (Native People) from past to present.
kipahele tOUR
Discover and explore behind-the-scenes views into the sacred wonders of this culturally significant ahupua‘a (land division). A guided experience to the waterfall and back same-day admission to Waimea Valley round-trip.
Explore waimea Valley
Bianca Valenti
Photo Brent Bielmann
Joey Cadiz and Billy Kemper
Photo Brian Bielmann
Photo Brent Bielmann
Photo John Weaver
Photo Brent Bielmann
Photos Brian Bielmann
The cultural significance of this event cannot be overstated.
More than a competition, the day was a living tribute to Hawai’ian hero, Eddie Aikau, to community, and to Hawai’ian culture.
“Today has been one of the best days we could have hoped for. Great weather, consistent surf. You can just feel Eddie’s spirit so strong,” said Linda Aikau, President of the Eddie Aikau Foundation and younger sister of Eddie Aikau.
“We are so proud to be the instrument that makes all of this happen. There are a lot of sponsors and foundation members that work really hard to get where we are today and we are so happy to see it result in such a successful day, and something we can continue to perpetuate in Eddie’s honor. He helped so many people, and he still continues to do so ‘til this very day,” Linda concluded.
Remembered by his family and all who surfed today in his honor, Eddie’s legacy continues to reverberate through Waimea Bay, where he once patrolled from the shore.
Results
Landon McNamara
Mason Ho
Billy Kemper
Jamie O’Brien
Nic Lamb
Luke Shepardson
Nathan Florence
Kai Lenny
Koa Rothman
Best Wwave: Landon McNamara
Mark Foo Spirit Award: Greg Long
PE'AHI
With the Eddie being run on this day, Dec. 22nd, it was very familiar to two years ago in that most of Maui's big wave stars would be off island. It gave a chance to a few newcomers to really push their limits beyond expectations whether they were ready or not. The day started out with the ultimate conditions for paddle although with the very long period in the swell the waves had a lot of speed. The swell built through the day as if it was daring the tow surfers to jump on an untamed bronco and challenge their skills. The glory of those waves as they peeled off was one of nature's finest pieces of work, showing the beauty and power of the mixing of water and air in its most artful form. It was a day to top off 32 years of photography at this place called Pe'ahi, which will forever beckon those with the will to experience her.
Story & Photos Erik Aeder
Kona Oliveira
Ty Simpson-Kane
Noah Beschen
Trevor Sven Carlson
Mikaela Fregonese
William Santana
MAOLI MUSIC OVERLOAD - MAOLI
Always love listening to this album when I’m away from home and get home sick!
ZEKE LAU
MUSIC
ONE DAY MAYBE - SASHAMON
Good right before a fun surf session. 3-4 and off shore. Get some cruise vibes going.
THE OFF-SEASON - J.COLE
Comp day! Get amped up!
LEON - LEON BRIDGES
Date night with the wife!
IN BETWEEN DREAMS - JACK JOHNSON
For those family beach days!
Ezekiel Lau
Photo Brian Bielmann
Ridge Lenny Photo Mattias Hammar
RIDGE LENNY
The Quiet Force Behind Maui’s Big Wave Scene
Ridge Lenny, younger brother of surfing prodigy and world champion Kai Lenny, has spent much of his career in the shadows of his sibling’s towering achievements. For years, Kai's name has been synonymous with hi-octane big-wave surfing, aerial antics, and competitive success— and for good reason: his accolades are legendary. Yet, as Ridge quietly honed his craft, it became increasingly clear that the younger Lenny brother was developing his own identity within the surf world. Ridge is no longer merely the "brother of Kai." Emerging as a force to be reckoned with in the world of big-wave surfing, he’s carving his own legacy alongside Maui’s fiercest watermen.
Growing up on the North Shore of Maui, Ridge’s early exposure to the ocean and surf culture was formative. Surrounded by legendary surfers like Laird Hamilton, Rush Randle, Buzzy Kerbox and Dave Kalama, the Lenny brothers witnessed the evolution of big wave surfing firsthand. Ridge’s journey, however, didn’t follow a straight path. While Kai made waves early in his career with his fearless approach to big waves, Ridge took a more measured route, eventually falling in love with the sport during his college years. What started as a simple childhood obsession became a profound calling.
Ridge's transition from a casual surfer to a big wave contender was a slow process. Despite his remarkable skills and his deeprooted connection to surfing’s history, Ridge’s efforts in the surf world have been a more steadfast ascent compared to his brother's meteoric rise.
RIDGE LENNY
Ultimately, through perseverance and hard work, Ridge Lenny is carving his own path in the world of big-wave surfing. It wasn't until after he completed his college studies and made a decision to dive into big wave surfing headfirst that Ridge truly began to realize his potential. His first encounters with the legendary waves of Jaws, the very waves that had inspired him as a child, were intense; yet once Ridge gained confidence and began to embrace the raw power of these waves, his connection to the ocean deepened.
As he continues to evolve and push the limits of what is possible on massive waves, Ridge’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and ultimately, the pursuit of a dream that started in his backyard of Maui.
FSM:
Can you recall your first wave? Take us through it.
RL:
I grew up surfing a spot called Sugar Cove on the north shore of Maui. It’s actually not the best wave—it’s a mushy reef with a little beach break—but as a kid, it felt like paradise. I’ll never forget the first time I stood up on my tiny Costco boogie board when I was about 6 years old. I fell in love with that sensation of speed and freedom. Every day of my childhood, I’d pretend I was riding 60-foot waves like I saw on TV at Jaws. My parents were always super relaxed about me going to the beach alone, and I’d ride my bodyboard for hours every day. I didn’t transition to a surfboard for a few years, but I always knew I’d be hooked for life.
FSM:
What attracted you to try surfing?
RL:
Surfing was just part of our lifestyle growing up. My brother Kai and I were always in the water. Our weekends were spent at the beach, and we’d obsess over the videos of the pioneers surfing Jaws. Watching those guys ride the biggest waves on Earth, we just wanted to be like them. The speed, the power—it was incredibly addicting. The ocean became our playground, and the thrill of challenging yourself against such immense forces is something I couldn’t walk away from.
FSM:
Who were some of your early influences? Did your older brother influence you specifically?
Photos Pat Nolan
Photo Roark Norton
"Surfing has become an essential escape for me. It’s a place where I can be in the moment, let go, and really appreciate nature. But there’s also the challenge of constantly improving. The small victories in surfing become incredibly addictive, and that keeps me coming back"
Photo Stu Soley
RIDGE LENNY
RL:
My early influences were definitely the Strapped Crew—Maui legends like Laird Hamilton, Dave Kalama, and Pete Cabrinha. These guys not only pioneered big wave riding at Jaws but were also open to other watersports like windsurfing and foiling. Watching them gave Kai and me a blueprint of what we aspired to. As for Kai, I was certainly influenced by him, but early on, I was also a little intimidated by his progress. It wasn’t until later that I fully embraced big-wave surfing and decided to follow his lead.
FSM:
What was it like to watch Kai lead the charge at Jaws? Did it drive you to push harder?
RL:
When Kai was really pushing boundaries at Jaws, I was just 12 years old. I was terrified, honestly. My dad would take me out on the JetSki to watch, and I swore I’d never surf there. But after college, I ended up re-evaluating everything, and the pull of big waves was undeniable. I took the plunge, and after a few sessions, I was hooked.
FSM:
Do you practice multiple disciplines like your brother?
RL:
I’ve dabbled in other watersports, but I always gravitated towards traditional shortboard surfing. When I was studying in San Diego, I really focused on small wave techniques. Now that I’m back in Maui, I surf when there are waves, and when it's flat, I wing-foil. My goal is to refine my small wave surfing so I can translate that technical ability into big-wave performance.
FSM:
Do you think surfers become more connected to nature than most other sportspeople? Do you think about this, or just surf for the sport?
RL:
Surfing has become an essential escape for me. It’s a place where I can be in the moment, let go, and really appreciate nature. But there’s also the challenge of constantly improving. The small victories in surfing become incredibly addictive, and that keeps me coming back. Without surfing, I think I’d still be involved in some sort of extreme sport. I crave being outdoors and the rush of adrenaline that comes with pushing my limits.
FSM:
Is there a brotherhood to surfing? What do all surfers share?
RL:
There’s definitely a brotherhood—especially in the big-wave community. Surfers from all around the world come together, share experiences, and support each other in ways that transcend language and culture. It’s comforting to know that no matter where you are, there’s a shared bond.
FSM:
Any last words or shout-outs?
RL:
I just want to give a huge shoutout to my parents. They sacrificed a lot for us to have an amazing childhood and gave us the tools to follow our dreams. I’m forever grateful for that.
Kai and Ridge
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OAHU
Kuhio Avenue Food Hall / Waikiki
Kelly O’Neil's / Waikiki
Jorge's / Haleiwa
El Ranchero / Kapolei
El Ranchero / Wahiawa
Mekiko Cantina / Ko’olina
Restaurant 604 / Arizona Memorial
The Beachouse by 604 / Waianae
60 Fore Bar & Grill / Barber’s Point
604 Clubhouse / Leilehua
604 Ale House / Schofield
Mangiamo’s / Navy Marine Golf
OAHU HOTELS
Sheraton Waikiki Hotel
Royal Hawaiian Hotel
Moana Surfrider Hotel
Princess Kaiulani Hotel
Marriott Waikiki Hotel
BIG ISLAND
Huggo's
Lava Lava
Kai Eats
MAUI
Sergio's Cantina
Sheraton Maui
KAUA'I HOTELS
Friendly Waves
Lava Lava Beach Club
KOA ROTHMAN, TEAM JAPAN WIN 2025 DA HUI BACKDOOR SHOOT OUT
The 2025 Da Hui Backdoor Shootout at Banzai Pipeline on Oahu's North Shore brought together elite surfers to celebrate one of the world’s most iconic and challenging waves. This unique event, known for honoring Hawai’ian surf culture and the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku, features a distinctive team-based format. Teams of five surfers competed over several days, aiming to achieve the highest combined scores through their best rides. Unlike traditional competitions, there are no head-to-head heats, fostering a cool spirit of camaraderie between team mates. The waiting period for “The Shootout” featured a string of massive, powerful north-west swells making for a heart pounding spectacle. This event is always high on the list as a spectator and athlete favorite and this year was nothing short of thunderous! There were a diverse range of surfing disciplines, including shortboarding, longboarding and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
BDSO champion, Koa Smith
Photo Brent Bielmann
Shayden Pacarro
A significant highlight of this year’s event was the Women’s Expression Session. The session was composed of renowned surfers Bethany Hamilton, Moana Jones-Wong, Keala Kennelly, and Bianca Valenti. Their participation emphasized the growing prominence of women in “waves of consequence.”
Bethany Hamilton, celebrated for her resilience and bravery after losing an arm in a shark attack in her youth, delivered a stellar performance during the event. With only one arm Hamilton paddled into some serious bombs that most two handed surfers might back out of.
Moana Jones-Wong, the “Queen of Pipeline,” also made a significant impact during the competition. Her deep understanding of Pipeline’s challenging waves and her fearless approach reinforced her esteemed reputation. In the waning moments of his last heat, in the last round of competition Koa Rothman nailed an absolute bomb and got as barrelled as you could get to emerge as the individual standout of the event. A North Shore native, Rothman’s powerful and fluid style earned him top honors in the shortboarding division. Reflecting on his win, he shared, “This is honestly my favorite event because there’s no other contest where you get to surf Pipeline six times with your best
Team Japan Photo Brent Bielmann
Jamie O'Brien
Bethany Hamilton Photo Brent Bielmann
friends.” Meanwhile, Team Japan, including Shinpei Horiguchi, Riaru Ito, Riku Matsumoto, Shogo Harada, and Shohei Kato, delivered a stunning collective performance to secure the overall team victory. Again, it was in the last round of competition that this team picked up some incredible tuberides. Their ability to navigate Pipeline’s shifting conditions with precision and creativity highlighted the global talent represented in the competition. This was a long time coming for the Japanese athletes and a great benchmark!
Beyond shortboarding, other divisions added depth to the event. In the stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) category, Zane Saenz triumphed with a dynamic display of wave-riding skill, further showcasing the versatility required to master Pipeline. The
Ivan Florence
Photo Brent Bielmann
Luke Tema
Photo Sabrina Weaver
Dr.
Sonny Rubin
longboarding division also featured noteworthy performances, celebrating the timeless art of traditional surfing at one of the world’s most technical breaks. Following in the footsteps of his father’s legendary longboard skills, Kalānōweo DeSoto took top honors, admitting, ”I’m so honored to be able to say for the rest of my life that I won this contest.”
The event spanned several days, beginning with heavy swells and challenging conditions before culminating in a thrilling final day of “positively firing” waves.
2025 DA HUI BACKDOOR SHOOT OUT RESULTS
Individual Winner: Koa Rothman
2nd Place: Shayden Pacarro
3rd Place: Jamie O’Brien
4th Place: Shogo Harada
5th Place: Nathan Florence
Team Winner: Team Japan: Shinpei Horiguchi, Riaru Ito, Riku Matsumoto, Shogo Harada, and Shohei Kato
Longboard: Kala DeSoto
SUP: Anthony Maltese
Moku Rider Hatikvah Amir
Photo: Jonna Matadad-Watson
By Tor Johnson
The 53rd Hale’iwa International Open started with a bang. Or, more like a roar. This was just after the Eddie, and this swell was nearly the same size. Every swell has its own particular energy. This one had strangely outsized sneaker sets. On the first day of competition, immense lefts started roaring across the lineup from somewhere out at sea, completely maxing out Hale’iwa.
Contest Director Joel Centeio, an ex-pro who won at Hale’iwa during the Triple Crown in 2009, has now run this contest for 10 years of its unheard of 53-year run.
“Everyone kind of expects big surf for the HIO, because we run it between Christmas and New Years, but, yeah, we had to take a pause for half the day.”
This probably wasn’t the best time to run the juniors division, so Joel decided to pause the contest. Not to worry, there was plenty of solid 10-12 foot Hale’iwa for the next day.
Mike Latronic
Merrik Mochkatel
Edrick Baldwin
Kaisei Adachi
THE 53RD HALE'IWA INTERNATIONAL OPEN
Hiromi Hasegawa-Suitt, who manages the new Patagonia Surf and brand stores in Hale’iwa, was there with her entire family: all of them entered the event.
“Merry Christmas!” She told her husband Spencer Suitt, signing him up for the Masters Shortboard division, then sending him out into 12-foot Hale’iwa.
“Come on honey, you can’t let everyone see you miss your heat!” she insisted.
According to Spencer, it was slightly terrifying. He’s been assisted by the Hawai’ian Water Patrol a few times after getting sucked out to sea by the current.
“I think I got more rides on the jet ski than on actual waves,” he laughed. “Thank God for Nolan on that ski!”
Nonetheless, Spencer took the beatings like a man, advancing through four brutal heats.
“No one else was getting many rides either,”he said. He ended up in 4th place.
Spencer’s daughter Skai took 3rd in the open women’s division, at only 15 years old. And Mom? Hiromi herself took 1st place in her division.
The beauty of the HIO is that it’s a community event, and everyone's invited.
“I really try to encourage everyone, from young to old, to be a part of this,” says Joel.
Indeed, even the old men were battling it out in the event. I surfed in what I call the “Old Man Division” but got eliminated in a tough semifinal in fun four-foot surf, losing to two friends of mine in the Grand Masters Division, Shuji Kasuya and Glen Matsumoto. Both of these guys are talented rippers who were once pro surfers. As much as I hated to lose, I decided to stick around until the end anyway, waiting on the beach just so I could watch as Mike Latronic beat both of them to win the final.
I sat there, taking it all in. Kids were riding the shore break, tossing footballs with uncles on the beach, and making forts next to the old Hale’iwa Surf Center, while their parents battled it out in the surf.
Joel Centeio
Hayden Flores
Kahlil Schooley
Mo Freitas
This is definitely a family event, not a serious pro thing, and even the kids got a turn at the loudspeaker. While the women’s heats were running, I heard a kid’s tiny voice calling for the next contestants,
“Auntie Angie, please check in for your heat!”
He just wanted to make sure Auntie didn’t miss her heat.
Competition was fierce, and there was plenty of the usual “smack talking,” but the vibe was good. This is the rare contest where we get to surf with our friends. True… some of us just enter so we can surf Hale’iwa with only four guys out, even if it’s only for twenty minutes. The waves were pumping as usual, the crowd was fired up, and at the end of the day, we all had fun.
And Shuji, Glen, and Mike, you betta watch out for me next year, you fakaz!
Kailani Renno
Luke Tema
THE 53RD HALE'IWA INTERNATIONAL
OPEN MENS SHORTBOARD (ALL AGES)
1. Luke Tema
2. Raphael Castro
3. Shohei Kato
4. Ned Snow
MASTERS SHORTBOARD (40-49 YEARS OLD)
1. Dillon Murphy Sr
2. Daniel Oliveira
3. Dusty Middleton
4. Spencer Suitt
SENIOR MENS SHORTBOARD (50-59 YEARS OLD)
1. Edrick Earl Baldwin Jr
2. Todd Coffey
3. Matt Kenny
4. Ross Myer
GRAND MASTERS SHORTBOARD (60 & UP)
1. Mike Latronic
2. Shuji Kasuya
3. Glenn Matsumoto
4. Matthew Bush
OPEN WOMENS SHORTBOARD (ALL AGES)
1. Ruby Berry
2. Zoee Bradshaw
3. Skai Suitt
4. Sol Carrion
WOMENS SHORTBOARD (35 & UP)
1. Hiromi Hasegawa-Suitt
2. Stephanie Da Silva
3. Angie Murphy
4. Kimiyo Dougherty
WOMENS LONGBOARD (ALL AGES)
1. Puaiohi DeFries
2. Alana Johnson
3. Kaiya Oliva
4. Cash Hoover
MENS LONGBOARD (ALL AGES)
1. Phil Rajzman
2. Pomai Hoapili
3. Ha'aheo Foster Blomfield
4. Gabriel Nascimento
5. Kamalani Ahue
MASTERS LONGBOARD (40-55 YEARS)
1. Joel Centeio
2. Pomai Hoapili
3. Leonard Foster Jr.
4. Usen Guzman
Nalu Sheppard
Dillon Murphy Sr
Ben Zanata
Kahanu Rangel
EDRICK BALDWIN
Surfing with Soul
By Mike Latronic
With his recent victory in the Hale’iwa International, we at Freesurf thought this was a perfect time to highlight this diverse and amazing athlete!
Edrick Earl Baldwin Jr., born in Carmel, California and raised in Hawai’i from age 15, has dedicated his life to the ocean. A surf instructor, and musician, Edrick embodies resilience, diversity, and community spirit. His journey began in his early teens and has since become a lifelong pursuit, one of connecting with people and inspiring others through surfing.
A Serendipitous Start
Edrick’s introduction to surfing came at 12 when his grandmother bought him his first surfboard. “It was the most amazing feeling,” he recalls of those early rides. A local surf shop in Monterey noticed his dedication and supported him as a team rider, solidifying his bond with the sport.
At 15, Edrick moved to Hawai’i, a decision that deepened his connection to surfing. He vividly remembers receiving a discounted wetsuit from local shop staff, whose generosity inspired him. “It felt amazing to have elders wanting to support a young kid in this new sport.”
Surfing as Art and Lifestyle
For Edrick, surfing is more than riding waves; it’s a way of engaging with nature. “The ocean is my canvas and arena,” he says. Observing local surfers, studying magazines, and watching surf films shaped his approach. He thrived on the challenge of performing, both for himself and as a source of inspiration for others.
Championing Representation
Edrick is passionate about increasing diversity in a sport historically dominated by certain demographics. “Surfing is for all colors and creeds,” he emphasizes. “I’ve always wanted to represent people of darker skin and show we are just as talented and capable.”
Edrick Baldwin Photo Mike Latronic
SHAUN CHANG, MD
Foot & Ankle Surgery
BRANDEE BLACK, MD
Sportsmedicine, Shoulder, Knee and Ankle Surgery, Arthroscopy
ROBERT MEDOFF, MD
Wrist, Hand Surgery
LINDA RASMUSSEN, MD
Robotic Knee & Hip Reconstruction, Adult & Pediatric, Arthroscopy DEVIN GANESH,
Hand, Elbow, Shoulder Surgery, Arthroscopy
HAND-CRAFTED ALOHA
3 WAIKIKI LOCATIONS!
Kai Coffee Hawaii at Alohilani Resort
2490 Kalakaua Ave, Suite #131
Honolulu, Hawai'i 96815 (808) 926-1131
Hours: 6:00AM - 5:00PM HST (UTC-10), 7 days a week
Kai Coffee Hawaii Lobby Bar at Alohilani Resort
Hours: 6:00AM-11:00AM HST, 7 days a week
Kai Coffee Hawaii Hyatt Regency Waikiki
2424 Kalakaua Avenue, #130
Honolulu, Hawai'i 96815 (808) 923-1700
Hours: 6:00AM - 5:00PM HST (UTC-10), 7 days a week
Traveling the world reinforced his belief in surfing’s unifying power. “It’s about respecting Mama Ocean and recognizing riding waves as a universal language,” he says. Edrick hopes to inspire those with fewer opportunities to discover surfing’s transformative power.
Teaching and Community Impact
As a surf instructor and ocean safety assistant, Edrick shares his passion with students of all ages through his highly rated surf school in Hawai’i. “Seeing people light up when they catch their first wave is incredible,” he says.
His approach, rooted in “knowledge, time, and aloha,” emphasizes not just technique but fostering a relationship with the ocean, self-confidence, and health. Post-pandemic, he’s observed a growing appreciation for surfing as a way to connect with nature, and he’s proud to see a new wave of instructors following his example.
Edrick Baldwin Photo Mike Latronic
A Global Perspective
For Edrick, surfing is a universal thread that connects people across cultures. “It creates a one-tribe mentality, a shared appreciation for the ocean’s power,” he explains. His commitment to sustainability reflects this philosophy, as he advocates for protecting land and ocean for future generations of surfers.
Beyond the waves, Edrick also finds joy in motocross, which mirrors his love for the ocean in its discipline, technique, and thrill.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Now in his early 50s, Edrick reflects on his journey with gratitude. “I’ve spent decades building a relationship with the ocean,” he says, “sharing that with others is something I don’t take for granted.”
INDUSTRY NOTES
SURF TECH SURFBOARD WINNER JOSEPH RUSSELL
Congratulations to Joseph Russell of Poway, California. He wins the Surf Tech Ben Aipa Bone fish! Much mahalo to all our subscribers who enetered to win!
Ross Williams is stepping into a new phase of his surf coaching career. He announced on Instagram that he’ll no longer travel with Championship Tour surfers, opting to coach from home in Hawaii and spend more time with family. Williams has worked closely with John John Florence, Bettylou Sakura-Johnson, and Tatiana Weston-Webb.
His decision comes eight years after leaving WSL commentary to coach Florence full-time, a partnership that led to three world titles. He also helped Sakura-Johnson reach the CT and guided Weston-Webb to multiple top-five finishes.
“On tour, coaching is a 24/7 commitment—there’s no real downtime,” Williams told The Inertia. “It’s an amazing job, but time away from family is the biggest sacrifice.”
ISA AND SURF CITY EL SALVADOR CONFIRM HISTORIC PARTNERSHIP THROUGH 2027
Six major ISA events to be hosted by Surf City El Salvador over next three years
ISA commits to strengthening El Salvador surf community, working directly with surf schools and judges
The International Surfing Association (ISA) and Surf City El Salvador have forged a landmark partnership, securing six major events in the Central American surfing paradise over the course of the next three years.
The unprecedented partnership, a first for the ISA, solidifies the continued support of the government of El Salvador while providing a guarantee of consistent event opportunities for national federations. Having previously hosted nine ISA events, Surf City El Salvador is now committing to a further six with options for more.
The agreement takes effect in 2025, with the two initial events consisting of:
World Longboard Surfing Championship (WLSC) - April 1824, 2025
World Surfing Games (WSG) - September 5-14, 2025
The WLSC will continue for each of the three years, while the WSG will alternate with the World Junior Surfing Championship in 2026. El Salvador have also the option to run the World Masters Surfing Championship during the period of the partnership, following the highly successful edition of the event last year.
As a part of this partnership, the ISA is proud to continue to support El Salvador in their efforts to promote Surf City worldwide.
JOHN JOHN FLORENCE, STEPHANIE GILMORE, AND GABRIEL MEDINA ANNOUNCED THEY WON'T COMPETE ON THE 2025 WORLD SURF LEAGUE (WSL) CHAMPIONSHIP TOUR (CT).
John John Florence, Stephanie Gilmore, and Gabriel Medina announced they won’t compete in the 2025 WSL Championship Tour, choosing instead to focus on personal projects and recovery. With 14 world titles combined, their absence leaves a significant gap in pro surfing.
Gilmore, missing her second consecutive season, aims to heal injuries and continue global surf adventures. Florence will prioritize film projects and exploring new waves, while Medina, recovering from chest surgery, hinted at joining Florence on a surf trip.
Stephanie Gilmore
Gabriel Medina
John John Florence
LAST LOOK
One of the most elegant and powerful bottom turns at the Backddor Shootout.
Balaram Stack, committed.
Photo Brian Bielmann
