Mavericks Surf Competition: Half Moon Bay. February 13

Yesterday Zeta and I packed up and drove down to Half Moon Bay early in the morning for the largest surf competition round these parts. The competition consists of 24 surfers riding the biggest big waves, monstrous walls of water built force that range between 20 to 50 ft. The contests is called when the conditions are right resulting in all 24 competitors flying from around the world within 48 hours. Chris Bertish, South African Maverick first place winner of the $50,000 prize, flew 36 hours to compete. 

Our day was filled with luck. I luckily got the last BIG lens on rental in the city and they even had a 2x extender (300 mm 2.8 with a 2x Extender making it 600mm). We luckily found next to perfect parking. we luckily missed the large surge that took out the stage, vendors, sight seers and news people. And we luckily lugged the cooler up the cliff without tumbling down backwards so that I had something to stand on next to my tripod and fat lens so that I could have a go at shooting a wave or two. Luck continued with the arrival of our friend Mark who we shared lunch and laughs with...as well as shared the weight of the cooler on the long walk back to the car. 
Both Zeta and Mark had a go at shooting too...which made it even more fun. Here are few from the day. Enjoy! 

                                                          Our view of the surge that made Maverick history.

Viewers attempting to see a wave high above the ocean via the airforce fence.

 

Jay and Silent Bob.

talking shop

 Zeta tumbling down.