VANS 2011 Triple Crown
Billabong Pipe Masters in Memory of Andy Irons, 2011: Gabriel Medina was able to silence some of his critics with this ride. 2011 marked some historic Pipe showdowns, especially in the Quarterfinals when John John Florence took on Kelly Slater. The Prince of Pipe took on the then 39-year-old veteran for an intense heat. Kelly Slater won, but he was later eliminated. Photo: ASP.
In 1983, the first Triple Crown was organized to showcase surfers’ abilities at three of the most famed surf spots to date: Pipe, Sunset Beach, and Haleiwa’s Ali’i Beach. In its 39th year, the Triple Crown is destined to showcase some insane battles between the biggest names in professional surfing.
As the Reef Hawaiian Pro kicks off this week, swell is expected to reach a highly anticipated 20-30 feet. After nine events, Mick Fanning holds the World Championship Tour rankings and the lead over Kelly Slater.
Here’s a look through the years at one of the most prestigious events in surfing – the Triple Crown of Surfing. Watch all the live action here.