The black sails of the Volcom Corporation are a welcoming sight for the Hawaiian contingency. The last five years, the brand has provided a prestigious platform for locals and international ‘QS grinders to wrap up the winter with one final hoorah. The contest allows webcast junkies the chance to see surfers outside of the top 34 do battle at the Banzai. The grittiness of “The Volcom” is ever-apparent as 124 warriors battle for 8 slots into the ASP grand finale and the chance to knock The Prince of Pipe from his throne.
The event is synonymous with the brilliance of John John Florence. Oahu’s favorite son has been the defending champion for the last three years running though John’s winning record is not for lack of an admirable opponent. In 2012, Florence stole the win in the dying seconds from the controversial hands of Pipeline playboy, Jamie O’Brien.
Last time we saw John in a jersey at his home break, Slater reminded the surfing world that the King’s time has not yet come to pass. Florence’s revenge would have to wait until next year’s Pipe Masters as he was knocked out of his opening heat by two Pipe rookies, Parker Coffin and Evan Geiselman. Transworld Surf expat, Chris Coté, perhaps said it best, “This event is all about the underdogs.”
The Volcom Pipeline Pro being a 5-star World Qualifying series event does not entail that it has second-class athletes donning jerseys. The $130,000 dollar prize purse and the chance to surf against the world’s best makes this event one of the most sought-after victories in surfing. Instead of battling for a world title, competitors are looking to start their season off with a good result to see them qualify for the dream tour.
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