Maui Pro-Am: The legendary spring event in Ho'okipa returns after 20 years

The Maui Pro-Am, a traditional windsurfing event (not to be confused with the prestigious Aloha Classic in autumn) is returning to the World Tour competition calendar after a 20-year break. From 14 to 18 April 2025, the Ho'okipa Beach Park on Maui will once again be the venue for spectacular wave action. This means that there will once again be two events a year in Ho'okipa. Sponsored by MFC (Maui Fin Company), the event promises a return to the roots of modern wavesailing. The organisers have already announced the star-studded entry list, headed by reigning world champion Marcilio Browne.

Birthplace of modern wavesailing

The Maui Pro-Am is more than just a competition - it is considered the birthplace of modern windsurfing in the waves. First held in the spring of 1982 at Ho'okipa Beach Park, this historic event introduced the world to a new dimension of windsurfing. What makes it special are the strong spring winds, coupled with the still persistent north swells, which in the best case also allow for a jump classification, whereas at the Aloha Classic in autumn, when the winds are weaker, only wave rides are usually scored. This is where the jump attempts developed into single and double rotations - manoeuvres that significantly advanced the development of the sport.

Star-studded line-up and high expectations

Reading the list of participants, you would never guess that this is "only" a 4-star event: In addition to world champion Marcilio Browne, top riders such as Marc Paré, Kai Lenny and Morgan Noireaux have announced their participation. Camille Juban, Robby Swift and Bernd Roediger will also be at the start. Lisa Wermeister and María Andrés will provide high-calibre competition for the women.

MFC as title sponsor

MFC Hawaii (Maui Fin Company) is the main sponsor behind the comeback of the Maui Pro-Am. Founded in 1986, the company has dedicated itself to the further development of fin design. Pio Marasco, founder of MFC, emphasises the importance of the event: "It is a privilege to support the return of the Maui Pro-Am, the event that put Ho'okipa on the map and catapulted our sport into the future." MFC has gathered an impressive team of athletes over the years. In addition to the stars already mentioned, this includes Ricardo Campello, Sarah Hauser, Levi Siver, Jason Polakow, Kauli Seadi and many other world-class windsurfers. Pio Marasco is delighted with the development: "I never thought the team would become so big.

Experienced judging team

A high-calibre judging team will ensure a fair assessment of the performances. At the helm is Luis Maria "Pick" Escribano, one of the most experienced judges in the history of windsurfing. He will be supported by Matt Pritchard, multiple world champion and former head judge, and Kevin Pritchard, himself winner of numerous World Cup titles and winner of the Maui Pro-Am in 2000. The team will be completed by Angela Cochran, the most successful Aloha Classic participant of all time and two-time world champion.

Traditional opening ceremony

The event will open on 14 April at 9:00 am local time with a traditional blessing ceremony. Auntie Mopsy will share the cultural and spiritual values of Hawaii with the participants, teams and spectators of the MFC Maui Pro-Am. This ceremony underscores the event's deep connection to Hawaiian culture and Ho'okipa.