Kelly Slater quoted Andy Irons' statement that the Eddie was "like the Olympics" during an interview after his semi-final heat at the Pipemasters. The Eddie is an amazing event; it was a privilege to be able to watch it from my home in California. Unfortunately, the coverage was more what one would expect from a high school football game than the Premier Big Wave Surfing Event. Martin Potter and Pancho Sullivan did a great job of keeping the ball rolling for hours, but they had no backup. They did not have quick access to statistics or even which surfer was up and riding. At one point a 100 point ride was given out and they had they to ask one of the guys on the beach who it went to (Greg Long). Camera work was not great. Understandable, given Waimea Bay, but there is room for improvement. Worst of all, the camera, which was not well coordinated with Pottz and Pancho was busy shooting chicks on the beach more than once when sets rolled in. If nobody is riding fine, but missing one of the worlds best big wave riders on 25'+ surf for a lame bikini shot is not OK. During the several hours I watched the announcers never changed out.
This years Pipemasters’ webcast was very professional. I could always use more Occy (better than cowbell), and the waves during the final were disappointing, but the webcast was informed and first rate. I hope the Eddie runs again next year and that the webcast is improved so it will properly represent the event.
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