JC: How conscious are you that there are photographers always shooting at Ho’okipa; does that effect the way you sail?
MB: I am very conscious as they are right there at the end bowl, sometimes we get really close. I love getting good shots and working with photographers. There is a lot to work with when Hookipa is on. First of all the crowds, getting a wave alone is not easy. Apart from that the wave has a million different sections and can break also deeper on every single set depending on the size; it is so hard to line up a nice water shot, but when you do, it’s very rewarding too. When I am shooting with someone, I do try to line up as much as possible to try tricks where they are in the water, but sometimes it is really tough. I would say if you get three or four decent shots in a water shoot session, you should consider that a great day!
JC: What sailors do you like to watch or ride with at Ho’okipa and why do they inspire you?
MB: Kauli, Levi, Victor, Keith, Ricardo, Graham, Polakow, Swift and Kevin Pritchard. Those are the main guys I like to watch and the guys I love to ride with. When any of those guys are in town and Ho’okipa is firing you can bet your bottom dollar they will be out there shredding. Riding Ho’okipa is what we love to do, it’s our ‘playground’ and that is what many of us get paid for; yep we are living the dream!.
“ Riding Ho’okipa is what we love to do, it’s our ‘playground’ and that is what many of us get paid for; yep we are living the dream! ”