Kelly Slater has taken out the Volcom Pipe Pro 2016, in 10-to-15-foot surf at Banzai Pipeline, Hawaii.
The magical all-star 30-minute final included Jamie O'Brien, Bruce Irons and Makai McNamara and got underway in classic Pipeline conditions. A barrel fest. Slater celebrated his first victory in two years.
"I'm stoked; it's been a while. Between drinks as they say in Australia. Two years since I won an event, and it was this one," expressed Kelly Slater.
"I feel good; it's obviously a great way to start the year off. It just flowed. Got big waves, got some nice barrels, had some high scores. But what a day! Perfect southeast trades and big bombing surf."
Slater secured the win with two solid scores - a 7.83 and an 8.73. McNamara, who had the highest wave of the final, was not able to find the backup ride he needed to overcome the Floridian. As a result, O'Brien finished runner-up.
Bruce Irons ended up winning the Todd Chesser Hard Charger Award for his commitment and determination in the Volcom Pipe Pro.
"I was not expecting that. It means a lot because I grew up looking up to Todd Chesser. I knew Todd; I was young, but he was always Todd Chesser, he's always the guy. I'd sit on the beach watching, and Todd would be going on the biggest rights," added Irons.
"Every time I'm out there I'm always thinking about the Todd Chesser waves. And I love Jeannie, it's a real honor to have this award. It's right up there, it's nice, I'm happy."
Volcom Pipe Pro 2016 | Final
1. Kelly Slater (USA), 16.56
2. Jamie O'Brien (HAW), 9.94
3. Makai McNamara (HAW), 8.90
4. Bruce Irons (HAW), 6.73