Big Island’s Dorian Nominated For Big Wave Awards

Professional surfer Shane Dorian, a native of Kailua-Kona, has been nominated for four different awards in the Billabong XXL Big Wave Awards to be held May 3 in Anaheim, CA.

The 30-year-old Dorian was nominated for his ride on Oct. 9 on the northern end of Maui. The surf spot is known as “Jaws” for the large waves it generates. In a YouTube video posted on the awards show’s website, Dorian can be seen coming down through the wave before disappearing behind a large amount of whitewash that flies at him. He stayed on the board and emerged a few seconds later.

Dorian was nominated for every category represented at the awards reception. He is up for “XXL Ride of the Year,” the “Pacifico Paddle-In,” the “Pacifico Tube” award, and the “Biggest Wave” prize. He could win up to $85,000 in award money, depending on how many awards he wins.