Photos Brian Bielmann – The Buffalo Big Board Surfing Classic once again proved why it remains one of the most beloved traditions in the surf community. Over the course of two unforgettable weekends, Makaha Beach came alive with the spirit of camaraderie, competition, and celebration. Family, friends, and spectators gathered in droves, basking in the warm Hawaiian sun and witnessing the unique display of skill and sportsmanship that has defined this event for 48 years.
Honoring the legendary Richard ‘Buffalo’ Kalolo’okalani Keaulana, the event embraced the values he instilled in the surfing world—inclusivity, fun, and respect for the ocean. Surfers of all backgrounds and abilities took to the waves, competing in 14 different divisions, each emphasizing the core principle of enjoying the sport rather than the pressures of individual victories. The tradition of shared success lived on, much like Buffalo intended when he launched the first Classic back in 1977.
The waves provided the perfect canvas for competitors, from seasoned legends over 60 years old to up-and-coming surfers eager to leave their mark. The Two-Person Team SUP races were exhilarating, while the Solo Body Surfers carved effortlessly through the rolling swells. The Foreign Division Surfing brought together participants from around the world, reinforcing the event’s global appeal. The weight-based divisions, including the 250# & Over Surfers and Bully Boarders, delivered thrilling performances, showcasing the power and agility required to maneuver the oversized boards.
Tandem Surfing and Bullyboard Tandem divisions captivated the crowd with their synchronized maneuvers, demonstrating teamwork and balance at its finest. Meanwhile, the Alaia and Paipo riders paid homage to surfing’s roots, gliding across the water with traditional boards. One of the most anticipated events, the Supsquatch category, saw five-person teams paddling together in perfect harmony, creating some of the most entertaining moments of the competition. The Canoe Surfers rounded out the festivities, their four-man teams displaying impeccable coordination and skill.
Beyond the competition, the event thrived on the energy of the community. Longtime friends reunited, newcomers were embraced into the fold, and the beach became a haven for storytelling, laughter, and cultural appreciation. Volunteers, whose tireless dedication made the event possible, were celebrated and acknowledged throughout the festivities.
As the final waves of the competition settled and the sun dipped below the horizon, it was clear that Buffalo’s vision had once again been fulfilled. The Classic wasn’t just about winning—it was about coming together, celebrating the ocean, and honoring the legacy of one of Hawaii’s greatest watermen. With Buffalo turning 90 this September, his mission of giving back to surfing remained stronger than ever.
Mahalo to Buffalo, the volunteers, the competitors, and every person who made this year’s event another unforgettable chapter in the story of the Buffalo Big Board Surfing Classic.