The waves draw their power from the coastline's geography. The swells build in a deep canyon off the coastline and break just under a kilometer away from Pillar Point over a shallow ocean reef, which launches the waves in the air and sends them crashing toward shore. It is an elemental place where the force of nature rewards the skilled and punishes the foolhardy.
"People have been broken here -- their legs, boards and spirits," said competitor Ken Collins, 36, of Santa Cruz. "It's a really potent wave, really scary."
The fans, some of whom drove hours to watch some of the world's best surfers, appreciated the show. They fanned out along the beach under sunny skies, huddled in winter jackets. Many watched the action from atop nearby cliffs like seagulls spying their next meal. All were in awe of the graceful and sometimes violent dance between wave and rider.
"I love seeing the big waves and the powerful ocean, and when you combine that with people willing to risk their lives, it's a big draw," said Anne Corbett, 24, of Millbrae.
For some, the contest underscored their limitations. Maverick's can make those who think they're good realize how much they have to learn.
Kevin Weng, 33, a marine biology doctoral candidate who drove up from Pacific Grove, California, grew up surfing in Hawaii and knows a thing or two about riding a wave. But he was in no hurry to join the pros in the surf at Maverick's.
"Hell, no," said Weng. "I like to push it, but nothing like this. You need to be 100 times better than me to be out there."
For Clark, the contest director, the event was the triumphant return of a wonderful tradition, one he hopes will continue for years.
"It was awesome," he said. "Everyone was stoked. The waves could have been better, but we worked with it, and we had a great time."
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