Eddie Aikau was a lifeguard at Waimea Bay in Hawaii.

He was also one of the greatest big wave riders who ever lived.

In March 1978, Eddie paddled for help from the double hull canoe Hokule'a, capsized in wild seas 12 miles south of Oahu. He was never seen again.

Waimea was Eddie's world. For one day, December 8, 2009, it was everyone's.

More than a surf contest, the Eddie is an event. It doesn't happen every year, but when it does, there's nothing like it. It's a waterman's Woodstock -- thousands of people sharing the stoke, as 28 of the world's finest big wave riders gather at Waimea Bay on the biggest day of the year and ride in Eddie's tracks.

There's been some epic Eddies, but 2009 went to another level. Spectacular 25-30 foot surf, insane wipeouts, incredible shorebreak charges -- and the winner hanging in the balance till the very last ride.

Come with us on a trip through this amazing day as we take you into the heads of the riders and the heart of the lineup for the Eddie's finest hour!

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