Warm-up Day for Eddie Aikau Big Wave Surfing Contest 2009: Waimea Bay

The world's best big wave surfers practiced for the 2009 Eddie Aikau Big Wave Surf Contest at Waimea Bay on Oahu's North Shore yesterday. They practiced in 20 to 25 ft. surf in choppy, windy conditions. Jamilah Star (second photo) got smashed against the rocks near the shorebreak on her first paddle-out, but she went back in and surfed with the big boys. You go, girl! Getting back on shore was another challenge and the crowds lining Kamehameha Highway and the beach cheered when the surfers came in. Several of them, including Jamilah, dropped to their knees and thanked God.

I don't know who most of the surfers in the shots are. The surfer with the red board is Kala Alexander. If you know who the rest are, let me know.

The Eddie is on today in beautiful weather and 40 ft. surf at Waimea Bay.