Pipeline
Pipeline
It’s one of the most powerful waves in the world and of the waves in this list probably the most technically demanding. For Eric, the danger doesn’t just stem from the wave and shallow reef, at certain points lurking just a metre below the surface. “It’s the crowded competitive line-up that can at times push you to take unnecessary risks and consequently take off on un-makeable waves which you would never otherwise have gone on. The group pressure is daunting at the best of times, especially at this highly conspicuous spot where every move is being watched by both locals and international media. Plus very few waves go unridden by locals. There’s certain places on the reef that are sketchy, super shallow and that everyone knows about, and under no circumstance do you want to find yourself in those impact zones. Finally, the take-off is super critical, a challenge in itself.” Pipeline is the place that has claimed more lives than any other, both visiting surfers and locals alike, and the tragic death of Teahupoo local Malik Joyeux in 2005 is a constant reminder of how prudent you need to be at Pipe.
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