Pipeline Masters was founded in 1971 by Hawaiian Fred Hemmings, creating the opportunity for surfers worldwide to enjoy their sport with the most impressive waves on the planet. What participants have sought over these three decades hasn't just been surfing, but attempting to stand out and become one of the best.
The event is undoubtedly the longest-running in surfing history. It takes place at the famous Banzai Pipeline peak on Oahu's North Shore, Hawaii, where the waves are tremendously high.
Billabong sponsors this event after a year packed with sponsorships of other circuit events, such as the Billabong Pro Tahiti in French Polynesia, the Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay in South Africa and the Billabong Pro Santa Catarina in Brazil. Undoubtedly a year full of intense emotions where the best surfers haven't missed a single Tour stop.
The President of the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP), 1978 world champion Wayne Bartholomew made these statements:
"Pipe is the most important stage and game, and the Pipe Masters is the most prestigious title on the Tour." Billabong brings its technical wealth to the North Shore icon, and this agreement embodies the concept of the "Dream Tour".
Andy Irons
The professional surfer was world champion in 2002, 2003 and 2004, boasting an impeccable record on the ASP World Tour, where he'd been competing since 1998.
He's already become a legend after passing away on 2nd November due to dengue fever, which he contracted in Puerto Rico. He attempted to participate in Hawaii but it wasn't possible, as not only hadn't he recovered but his condition worsened.
A surfer since childhood, he shared this passion with his brother Bruce Irons, with whom he learned to surf on Kauai island. One of his greatest obstacles was related to another of surfing's all-time greats: Kelly Slater. The rivalry between these two riders was ever-present, not just in championships but also reflected in their respective sponsors, Billabong and Quicksilver.
He always knew surfing was his passion and wanted to dedicate himself body and soul to it, being fortunate to have Billabong's support, who gave him the freedom to choose how, when and where he would chase waves.
After attempting to leave the ASP circuit, he returned the following year, achieving excellent results.
The surfing world will miss him dearly, which is why the Pipeline Masters has decided to pay him this personal tribute.
