The Red Bull Cape Fear event has the potential to be one of the most entertaining contests in surfing. So far, though, it hasn’t exactly measured up to its potential. Last year wasn’t a perfect showcase for what one of the scariest waves on the planet can be–but everyone knows that one of these years, it will be. And this might be the year.
For those that don’t know, Red Bull Cape Fear is an invitation only event held at what has been described as “pound for pound, the heaviest wave in the world.” It has long been a haven for only the most devoted of madmen. This year, the waiting period has been extended, and runs from April 15th to August 31st, which almost guarantees the right swell for a truly awe-inspiring show.
When it is called on, 16 of the invitees, including Mark Mathews, Ryan Hipwood, Makua Rothman, and up-and-comers Russel Bierke and Jack Robinson, will paddle out and test their mettle in waves that have could potentially have very, very serious consequences.
Mark Mathews, one of the most dedicated surfers at one of Australia’s most feared waves, is the director of the event. “Everything is ready to go,” he said of the window to the waiting period opening. “Now it’s all up to Mother Nature to do her thing. I’ll be glued to the weather forecast with my fingers crossed for the next few months!”
