Gallery: Jaws Roars As Another Round Of Swell Lights Up Hawaii
Sending massive swells to Hawaii and California, the North Pacific has flipped the switch and turned on. The early frontrunners of that swell activity hit Pe'ahi, or Jaws, earlier this week and a cadre of big-wave surfers were on hand to take advantage. Not the biggest or most terrifying day at the famed Hawaiian big-wave break we've ever seen, what it lacked in size it made up for in clean conditions and rippable walls.
Among the standouts during the session were journeyman Ian Walsh, who's been on it all winter, as has Albee Layer, who would probably describe the day as being "playful." Also out there was teenager "Baby" Stevie Roberson, who captured the world's attention earlier this winter when he was towed into a bomb by local boy Tyler Larronde, who was also out styling on some solid set waves during this swell.
Pe'ahi Comes Alive
The medal of honor for the day goes to adaptive surfer Evan Strong, who was charging with his prosthetic leg. He may have copped a beating or two, but his heart and courage stood tall as he fearless hurtled himself over the ledge. The adaptive surf movement has been steadily growing over the last few years, and Strong just took things to even greater heights. You love to see it.
There's a ton more swell on the way, and this session may have been more of a warmup than anything. As this gallery goes live the swell continues to fill in. Plus, there's another round of swell lining up for the week of January 8. It would appear the El Nino winter has fully kicked in.
Big ups to ace lensman Matt Cibulka for keeping his finger on the trigger and capturing all the action. Love your work!
