Ian Walsh’s Big Week (After A Bigger Year)

A decade-and-a-half ago, Ian Walsh watched Shane Dorian give back to his island community, hosting his versions of an annual surf contest for kids on the Big Island.

Ian followed suit on Maui, and this year his Menehune Mayhem contest turns 15. And and it’s a big one.

Somehow Ian’s managed to fit 300 competitors into the two-day event at Hookipa. Another 150 more kids will come down to participate in activities around it. When him and his family started the contest in 2003 there were 60 competitors—which to them, seemed like a lot at the time.

“I can’t believe it’s been 15 years, it doesn’t seem like that long,” Ian told Stab. “It’s a pretty well-oiled machine at this point, I’ve got amazing help. My family and friends all make this possible. This year Patagonia’s gotten onboard to help work with the kids, so it’s more than just another surf contest. There’s going to be educational elements to it.”

Pinned with last-minute details and loose ends, Ian barely had a moment to recognize his other big accomplishment this week. His winning barrel from the Peah’i Challenge made the Top Ten Plays of the Year on ESPN’s Sports Center.

For the moment, all’s good in Ian’s world. Another big-wave season is safely behind him and another epic Menehune Mayhem comp is in front of him. Over the last few months he’s enjoyed sailing adventures in the Pacific and snowboard adventures in the backcountry.

“I can’t complain,” he smirks. “I’ve been busy. I’m lucky. And right now, I’m just so excited to get all the kids down to Hookipa and have another great comp down there.”

And like that, Ian was off to fill out more heat sheets, fill more goodie bags and keep the vibe alive on Maui.