VIDEO: Epic Conditions Expected as Maui Makani Classic Opens

Maui Makani Classic 2012, photo by Wendy Osher.

[flashvideo file=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLoTRYzq0hI /] By Wendy Osher

The Maui Makani Classic kicked off today with opening ceremonies at Ho’okipa Beach Park on Maui’s North Shore.

The event features 100 competitors from 24 countries around the world.

The 10-day window for the seven-day America Windsurfing Tour Championship began today.

Officials observed slight wind today, but anticipate windy conditions with waves to be ideal this weekend, when a north swell is due to arrive late Friday into early Saturday.

“The weekend is lining up to be epic,” said competition officials today.

“The enjoyment of just being able to be out there windsurfing and being able to enjoy the beautiful climate that we have, the scenery, and of course the people is what its all about,” said Mayor Alan Arakawa during the opening ceremonies.

Top names from the world of professional windsurfing have converged for the event including Kai Lenny, Josh Stone, Levi Siver, Kevin Pritchard, Camille Juban, Kai Katchadourian, Robby Swift and more.

Featured women include: Junko Nagoshi, Ingrid Larouche, Tatiana Howard, Miho Tanaka, Fiona Wylde, and more.

The event also features $5,000 in prize money, and classic Ho`okipa conditions at a place often referred to as the Mecca of Windsurfing.

Maui Makani Classic 2012, photo by Wendy Osher.

Maui Makani Classic 2012, photo by Wendy Osher.

Maui Makani Classic 2012, photo by Wendy Osher.

Maui Makani Classic 2012, photo by Wendy Osher.

Maui Makani Classic 2012, photo by Wendy Osher.

Maui Makani Classic 2012, photo by Wendy Osher.