The 40th Annual Haleiwa International Open was blessed with good surf and great conditions. These factors along with the prestige that this event holds brought about a stacked field of competitors eager to take the win in their respective divisions. The HIO was held in everything from playful 3-5 foot surf in the opening rounds, to macking 8-10 foot surf on day 3 of competition. Rusty riders Austin, Mahina, Luke Shepardson, and Dana Tortuga were entered and surfed well throughout the event. Haleiwa regular and stand-out Austin took the win in the Boys Division. He's not afraid to charge big waves and it showed in his heats as he negotiated critical turns on the biggest waves that came through. He also surfed up in age divisions, missing making the Finals of the Juniors in the Semis and Mens in the Quarters. Luke Shepardson also made the Finals in the Boys Division, placing 4th. Mahina entered the Open Womens Longboard and Shortboard Divisions. She surfed well in her heats, but just missed the Finals in both divisions, being edged out in the Semis. Longboarder Dana Tortuga combined stylish noserides with graceful top turns, leading her through the opening rounds to a 4th Place Finals appearance. Below is a few photos from the event. Stay tuned for more HIO competition pictures of all of the Rusty riders!
