Never Break The Chain: The Eddie Opening Ceremony

The Eddie tease started early this year, and it tickled! As we typically look towards the Pacific to dictate whether or not the event will run, this year we paused for negotiation. We held tight to corporate sponsorship, the specifics of passing permits and whether or not Red Bull would open their kitty and release their media house’s lion. As has been sufficiently covered, what was once off, is back on. And yesterday at the Bay, Eddie’s only annual tradition kicked off to rain, clearing clouds and peeking sun. Yes, it was a typical day off Kam Highway. 

Everyone from Kelly Slater to John Florence, Kala Alexander to Bruce Irons, Ross Clarke-Jones to Mason Ho, Mark Healey to Greg Long showed face and paid their respect to one of surfing’s premiere watermen. As they paddled out in unity, the clouds broke, the sun shone, and the backdrop was immense. A fitting ending to a day rebirthed from turmoil and speculation. And if the Eddie does go this year (it has never gone back-to-back in its 32-year history) the fruits will be historic.