Da Hui Holds Backdoor Shootout Opening Ceremony with Big Surf on the Way

"The circus is in town" is a saying often heard on the North Shore during winter. It means surf contest season is in full force.

Hordes of people show up to watch contests like the Vans Pipe Masters and the Haleiwa Pro at Ali'i Beach Park.

The opening ceremony for the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational took place in early December when some of the world's most respected big wave surfers gathered in honor of surf legend Eddie Aikau.

Then there's Da Hui Backdoor Shootout in memory of Duke Kahanamoku, the team-style contest that's only held if the waves are practically perfect.

The elaborate opening ceremony in the video above took place a couple of days ago at Ehukai Beach Park, the home of Pipeline and Backdoor. Its holding period kicks off tomorrow and runs through January 16th.

And as luck would have it, there's bombing surf on the forecast.

Hui O He'e Nalu captioned the post:

"Mahalo Nunui to everyone who came to participate in our Da Hui Backdoor Shootout Opening Ceremony in Memory of Duke Kahanamoku and presented by @gonutshawaii & @keiki_beach_bungalows.

"Mahalo to the Royal Order of Kamehameha for your presence and cultural lineage.

"Thank you to Dennis Salas for the blessing of the surfers and staff - and everyone who was there. Mahalo to @halauikalimakuhilani for the beautiful hula.

"Special mahalo to our @protectmaunakea @mkea.info ‘Ohana for keeping the bond from the top of Mauna Kea to the sands and shores of Ehukai."

Team Snapt5 dominated the last two years, with Mason Ho clinching the win in 2022 and Benji Brand taking it last year.

Press play above for a glimpse into an opening ceremony packed with Hawaiian tradition and some of the best Pipe surfers.

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