06.16.01
by: Scott Bass
Surfer Magazine

Today the surf increased slightly, but not enough to get the green light from the contest officials and surfers. Some lively (if not all together heated) discussion was had between all the parties involved and it was agreed upon to hold off another day for the swell to fill in.

Bruce Irons

"The swell is just to inconsistent for all six surfers to get their wave count," explained contest Director Bernie Baker. "So what we've decided to do is surf this afternoon with their jersey's on in an expression session format. We want to give a little something back to the locals. Keep in mind that this little beach is these people's front and back yard. The want to see a show...and Occy and the boys want to give them one."

Shane Dorian

Tomorrow brings with it the hope of an increase in swell. Baker is confident that it will arrive. With only five days remaining, some of us are getting antsy to see some heats. Baker is as calm and cool as they come. And after 20+ years of running surf contests on Oahu's North Shore, his patience and nerve are both unwavering. "Right now, if you look at the number of days that we are into, from the moment that we actually got to the surf (Tuesday morning), we are absolutely right on schedule," explained Baker. "Last year we ran into some unstable weather, which threw us off a day or two, and everything worked out fine. So right now, we are setting up for a perfect finish. We are not in panic mode...yet."

"Happy birthday dear Occy..."

Some are a bit panicky however. But it has nothing to do with the swell and everything to do with Occy's birthday party tonight. The festivities promise to be wrought with plenty of libations. Mix in a few older photog types, a couple of surf journos, Damien "Dooma" Hardman, Marty Thomas, and...well you can see why some are nervous. "It's just really neat to celebrate Occy's birthday because he's an older surfer," Said photographer Jeff Divine. "But you see, Occy can rage all night and still beat all those guys tomorrow."

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