Liam McNamara is bringing back the legendary 'Wave of the Winter' award, a prestigious title that has been coveted by surfers for decades. With a mission to honor the best waves caught on the North Shore, McNamara aims to revive this iconic competition with a grand prize of $25,000 and monthly awards. The waiting period begins on December 1st, and the excitement is already building.
McNamara, a Pipeline local and surfing legend, has raised over $100,000 from various companies to support this initiative. He believes that the North Shore's waves deserve recognition and that surfers should be rewarded for their exceptional rides. The award's revival is a significant step in preserving the culture and history of surfing on the North Shore.
The 'Wave of the Winter' award has a rich history, dating back to the early days of the North Shore. It was an unofficial title bestowed upon the best wave of the winter, often caught by the likes of Kelly Slater, Jamie O'Brien, and Nathan Florence. McNamara emphasizes the importance of this award in giving back to the surfing community, as many surfers and companies have benefited from the Banzai Pipeline.
The competition will feature a live webcast, with sponsors getting their share of airtime. Judges include Nathan Fletcher, Dave Wassel, Peter King, Brent Bielmann, and Kawai Lindo. The competing surfers will also have a say in the winner selection, and the general public will vote via an online poll. McNamara ensures that no waves caught in competition will be eligible to win the WOTW this year, adding an extra layer of exclusivity.
The award celebrates waves that are typically not 'perfect' but rather big, thick, and borderline unrideable. McNamara highlights the importance of being in the right place at the right time, as the winner of the 'Wave of the Winter' is often determined by luck and the unique conditions of the North Shore.
The revival of this iconic award promises to bring excitement and controversy, as surfers will go to great lengths to catch the ultimate wave. McNamara's efforts aim to keep the award running while giving it a broader projection, ensuring that the North Shore's waves continue to be celebrated and remembered for years to come.
