BIIF surfing contest crowns champions despite stormy Kona Coast challenges
The second BIIF surfing contest took place on Saturday, March 14, at Kohanaiki Beach Park along the Kona Coast. Eight schools from across Hawaii competed in tough conditions, with blustery winds, occasional showers, and inconsistent waves testing the surfers' skills. The event kicked off early, but a sudden downpour disrupted proceedings when the electronic scoring and PA systems lost power. After a short delay, competition resumed with standout performances across multiple categories.
In the longboard finals, HAAS siblings Alex and Amaya Ranne took top honours, winning the boys and girls divisions respectively. Felix Barton, also from HAAS, made history by scoring a perfect 10 in the boys bodyboard final—his first flawless ride of the year. Kealakehe's Toby Aspirin claimed victory in the boys shortboard final, while Sandler Everly from Hilo High secured second place. Meanwhile, Lily Michaels from Kamehameha won the girls shortboard final, with teammate Hereiti Delenia finishing runner-up. Ella Koenigs of Kealakehe took first in the girls bodyboard event, pushing Amaya Ranne into second. Beyond the competition, teams prepared rigorously. Hilo High scouted Kohanaiki during spring break, and Kamehameha-Hawaii trained under the guidance of professional surfer Makua Rothman. By the contest's end, Kealakehe High School and Kamehameha Schools led the medal count. The next BIIF surfing contest is scheduled for April 25, though organisers have yet to confirm the location.
The event highlighted both individual talent and team preparation, with surfers overcoming unpredictable weather and technical setbacks. With another contest approaching, competitors will now focus on refining their skills before the April 25 competition.
