Craig Anderson Could Find A Spitting Tube In A Tranquil Koi Pond

Craig Anderson hasn’t been to Hawaii in nine years. 

His last wave on the North Shore came at age 25. The 34-year-old is well aware his lack of experience puts him in crosshairs at the Vans Pipe Masters (December 8-20), and he seems incredulous that he’d even be invited to such an event. He’s not even planning to warm up, and the first wave he catches there this season will count for a score. 

But for those who’ve watched Craig for some time, it’s obvious why he’s on the list, despite the lack of hours logged on this particular stretch of reef. Craig has a way of being in the right spot at the right time, on downright dangerous waves, even if he claims hesitancy. Whether it’s slouching into an underground tunnel or landing a lofty full rotation, Craig’s nonchalantness in places most people fear to go is a huge draw.

It’s funny how different some competitors view the no-priority rule. Even a few non-locals say they look at it as a way to get more reps. Others, Craig included, see it as limiting their potential.  

“No priority, split peak—there are definitely going to be some tussles. It could be a complete bloodbath,” Craig says. 

Watch above as Craig reveals who he doesn’t and does want in his heats (both are Hawaiians), how he once beat Jordy Smith in a junior heat in South Africa, and what kind of equipment he’ll take to Hawaii. I wonder how that Kandui Hypto Krypto is faring these days.