Mavericks Invitational is proud to announce that GoPro has signed on as the presenting sponsor. GoPro, maker of the world’s most versatile cameras and producer of some of today’s most engaging content, has made a two-year commitment to the contest.
“GoPro is a great fit,” said contest director and Mavericks pioneer Jeff Clark. “GoPro started right here in Half Moon Bay by surfers and for surfers. We’ve watched them grow over the years through their unique ability to connect the public with action sports. We’re really excited to work together.”
Started in Half Moon Bay, GoPro makes the world’s most versatile cameras, enabling
people to capture immersive and engaging footage of themselves during their favorite activities. GoPro’s HERO line of wearable and gear mountable cameras are used collectively by more consumers, professional athletes, and video production professionals than any other camera in the world. Based in San Mateo, California, GoPro’s products are available in stores in more than 100 countries, worldwide, and direct via GoPro.com.
“We are stoked to be part of Mavericks Invitational as it recognizes the world’s top big-wave surfers charging one of the most famous big waves on the planet,” said Paul Crandell, vice president of marketing for GoPro. “GoPro was created close to Mavericks. In fact, the harbor near Mavericks is where our founder Nick Woodman would do camera and water housing tests. So, the event also means a lot to us because these are our friends and neighbors who are behind this event. And with the GoPro camera onboard, we’re looking forward to providing people around the world with a unique
perspective and idea of what it is like to drop in and ride at Mavericks.”
Contest Waiting Period Set to Open
Mavericks Invitational organizers are preparing for the opening of the contest window, which starts on November 9, 2012, and runs though March 31, 2013. When wave height and weather conditions are perfect, organizers make “the call” to hold the contest with 24-hour notice.
To celebrate the opening of the new season, the traditional Opening Ceremony and Paddle Out is scheduled for Friday, November 9. The Opening Ceremony is a ritual unlike any other, bringing the athletes, surfers and fans to the beach to commemorate the opening of the big wave season. In the long-honored Hawaiian tradition, surfers then paddle out to the water and form a prayer circle.
“The Opening Ceremony is a special ceremony to gather of the tribe, this family and community of surfers, to join hands and bless the event, ” Clark said. “It’s a chance to bring the competitors and Mavericks community together on a non-contest day, away from the spotlight and commotion of a contest. It’s a time for us to come together in the spirit of family and remember why we do what we do.”