Vans Triple Crown of Surfing through the Years

2008 Billabong Pipeline Masters

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Billabong Pipe Masters, 2008: The swell lined up almost perfectly for contestants early on in the competition. Rain had moved in by the final day, resulting in murkier waters. Kelly Slater was pitted against Chris Ward in the final on a daunting day. 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.