The Surf N Sea 41st Annual Haleiwa International Open presented by Hurley was held this past week in ideal eight-to-ten foot surf. Our own Joel Centeio was there and gave us a quick rundown of the event. 

"The Haleiwa International Open (HIO) showcased 12 divisions for guys and girls of all ages in both shortboard and longboard disciplines as well as a specialty event for Japanese surfers who are members of the JPSA. The HIO is the only amateur event with a 12-day waiting period, with the four best days used for competition. This is a big wave amateur surfing event that lived up to its name this year, finishing in perfect eight-to-ten foot surf.

There were standout performances throughout the event. Lucas Silveira from Brazil took out the Boys division with powerful carves and near flawless wave selection. Matty Costa won the Junior Mens division with a solid backhand attack in the sizable surf. Matty posted a perfect 10 in the Final, and followed it up with a 7.5. He also won the Hurley True Performance Award for his overall performance in the Juniors and Mens divisions. In the Japan Pro Mens division, Shimpei Horiguchi, a big wave charger from Hokkaido, turned in a first place finish while Jun Jo came in a close second. Jun, a Hawaiian/Japanese pro, opened the final with a near perfect 9.8 double barrel but couldn't secure a second score to overtake an in form Shimpei Horiguchi. Congratulations to all the finalists.

The HIO is run by the Friends of Alii Beach, a non-profit organization, and is the longest running surfing event in the world. Thanks to all the staff and competitors for participating. Until next time." -- Joel