Billabong Pipeline Masters 2008

The Billabong Pipeline Masters got off to a flying start in Hawaii today with the dangerous reef break delivering mind blending tube rides for the opening rounds of competition. With 16 Pipe specialists awarded wildcards into the final event of the ASP Men’s World Tour, it was the Hawaiian heavyweights and future stars that dominated the first day. 16-year-old hotshot Jon Jon Florence, 2004 event champion Jamie O’Brien, big wave surfer Shane Dorian and current Triple Crown ratings leader Dusty Payne all progressed easily through the first round with commanding heat wins.