Watched quite a few surf movies this weekend. One of which was
Pipeline Masters
. The Pipline Masters competition is one of the most famous and popular single surfing competitions. So much so, that Pipe is traditionally the final stop on the ASP World Tour where the World Champ is crowned. (And there have been quite a few showcase showdowns at this event that decided the crown for the year.)
The basic premise of the movie is a review of the history of the Pipeline Masters competition. We get to see the style of surfing the Bonzai Pipeline change from the single fin grace of Gerry Lopez, to the full tube charge of Shaun Tomson, to the discovery and mastery of Backdoor and on into the present as well as hear anecdotes from Pipe winners on their victorious runs.
One of the most interesting things I learned from the film was that winning the Pipe Masters is nearly as prestigious as winning the World Title. Dudes who have never won World Titles are still regarded with the greatest awe for winning Pipe. (I’m not suggesting Pipe winners are slackers, just noting that no other event carries such prestige.)
But, Pipeline Masters has the perfect blend of content – some interesting surf history, good tunes and great surfing. Well worth a watch and a purchase.
[youtube width=”570″ height=”440″]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSjuHJRCfiw[/youtube]