JAWS Big Wave Championships Donates to Maui Nonprofits in Lieu of Site Rental Fee

As the remnants of this year’s first large winter swell rolled in at the renowned Peʻahi surf break, local non-profits, event partners, and big wave surfers gathered for the opening ceremonies of the 2019/2020 Jaws Big Wave Championships.

Following a Hawaiian blessing, event organizer Rodney Kilborn aka “Handsome Bugga” introduced event partner representatives from Alexander & Baldwin, the World Surf League, and the state legislature. In a display of state support and appreciation for the dedication to the big wave event, Maui state representative Lynn DeCoite presented WSL and long-time friend Kilborn with certificates of appreciation signed by every member of the Hawaiʻi State Legislature.

“It takes a village to build something positive and move in the right direction,” said Kilborn.  “Peʻahi is the absolute best big wave out there and it brings together people from around the world that are different. I’m talking about different in that the big wave surfers and community members really care and are conscientious about their environment. The strength of everybody coming together to promote good behavior and positive actions sets a really good example for everyone else who is watching us.”

Alexander & Baldwin facilitates support of the event by providing safe access and viewing opportunities. In support of Maui’s local community, A&B asks WSL to donate to Maui non-profits in lieu of charging a site rental fee. This year’s recipients of donations include Mālama Maui Nui, Boys and Girls Clubs of Maui, Maui Interscholastic League, Imua Family Services and Lōkahi Pacific/Teens On Call.

Big wave surfers featured in the event include Kai Lenny, Torrey Meister, Andrea Moller, Tyler Larronde and others.

Rodney Kilborne Local WSL organizer with State house Rep Lynn Decoite & Gary Linden of the WSL. JAWS Opening Ceremony. Photo credit: Nolan Brown

JAWS Opening Ceremony. Photo credit: Nolan Brown

Maui Big Wave surfer Kai Lenny at JAWS Opening Ceremony. Photo credit: Nolan Brown

JAWS Opening Ceremony. Photo credit: Nolan Brown

Mālama Maui Nui was among the benefactors at the JAWS Big Wave Championships Opening Ceremony, held at the infamous Peʻahi surf spot on Maui’s North Shore.

Mālama Maui Nui was among the benefactors at the JAWS Big Wave Championships Opening Ceremony, held at the infamous Peʻahi surf spot on Maui’s North Shore.

Ceremony participants wished this year’s incredibly courageous big wave competitors a successful and safe
season (Pictured from left to right: Tyler Larronde, Jojo Roper, Paige Alms, Kai Lenny, Trevor Carlson, Keala
Kennelly, Andrea Moller, and Torrey Meister). Courtesy photo.