Who’s Beating the Hos in a V-Land Barrelfest? 

The Da Hui Backdoor Shootout is a wonderfully unique way of showcasing skill and bravado at the world’s deadliest wave. But what if it were possible to have that contest format at other waves on the North Shore? What kind of creative and impressive surfing would we see? There’s a certain playful peak three kilometers north that could offer a welcoming canvas. 

Put the permitting and logistics problems away for a moment and imagine if the Da Hui’s format somehow made its way over to Velzyland. The roll-in rights may be the aesthetic opposite of a west swell at Pipeline, but both are compelling waves. There’s the obvious barrel section, but the lead-up provides a clear showcase of a surfer’s comfort and style over a shallow reef.