Ku Ikaika Possible 'Go'
EYES ON SUNDAY/MONDAY FOR POSSIBLE 'GO'

(Makaha, HI) - January 26, 2010 --- Organizers of the third annual Quiksilver Ku Ikaika Challenge, presented by C4 Waterman, are closely watching a developing swell that could see the event run this weekend. While tomorrow's swell has officially been ruled a no-go, the following system may deliver contestable waves of 15-feet-plus this Sunday into Monday. Tomorrow's swell is only expected to show around 12 feet at Makaha, accompanied by less-than-favorable winds. An update on the ensuing weekend swell will be issued as the system develops.

The Quiksilver Ku Ikaika Challenge is a big-wave, stand up paddle (SUP) invitational surfing competition that runs on one day when wave face heights exceed 15 feet at Makaha Point, on the west shore of Oahu. The event holding period runs through February 28, 2010.

The 2010 list of invitees and wildcards features a mix of legendary and rising SUP experts that includes defending champion Aaron Napoleon, Jamie Mitchell (Australia), Raimana Van Bastolaer (Tahiti), Ibon Amatriain (Euskadi), Robby Naish (Hawaii), and Gerry Lopez (Hawaii).

The Ku Ikaika Challenge will offer a total prize purse of $10,000, with $3,000 going to the winner. The main event will consist of 30 invited surfers plus six wildcards.

"Ku Ikaika", a Hawaiian phrase that means stand strong, was derived in reference to the sport of stand up paddle surfing and to upholding a healthy and positive approach to wave riding.

I think Billy Watson is in it too!

Excellent call to have Jamie and Billy invited.

I am a little surprised that none of the Dungeons chargers, like Jason Ribbink, made the list.