HBO’s “100 Foot Wave” returns this Thursday with an episode sure to make waves. “Chapter IV: The Eddie” takes us to the North Shore of O’ahu for the legendary Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, a competition held only when waves consistently reach 40 feet or higher at Waimea Bay. After a seven-year hiatus, the world’s best big wave surfers, including Justine Dupont, Lucas “Chumbo” Chianca, and Kai Lenny, gather to test their mettle against the ocean’s fury.
But one name is conspicuously absent from the invite list: Garrett McNamara, the man who helped bring big wave surfing at Nazaré, Portugal to global attention. The episode explores McNamara’s difficult relationship with the Eddie, his pioneering spirit in pushing the boundaries of the sport, and the toll it has taken on his life and career. While the competition takes place on the monstrous swells of Waimea, McNamara takes a reflective journey, contemplating his past achievements and the future of big wave surfing.
“Chapter IV: The Eddie” is a look at the high-stakes world of big wave surfing, from the intense preparation and camaraderie among competitors to the sheer awe-inspiring power of nature. Amidst the drama of the competition, the episode also observes the surprising victor’s celebrations. “100 Foot Wave” airs Thursday, May 22 at 9:00 PM ET on HBO.
