Luminescent skies, blue clear water, and lush tropical surroundings only begin to describe the pristine environment of Queens Beach in downtown Waikiki, Hawaii. Add in a host of beautiful wahines, progressive surfing talent, and the fight for a good cause, and the setting becomes the ideal tropical paradise. This year Rip Curl is proud to be continuing our presentation sponsorship of China Uemera's 7th Annual Wahine Surfing Classic. The tournament will be held on June 14-15, 2003, and is the largest girl's surfing event ever staged in Hawaii.

Rip Curl has teamed up again with Hawaiian legend China Uemera to host the tournament in support of the local Hawaiian community recognizing sexually abused women and children. All proceeds go to the Kapiolani Women's Hospital.

This year, the waves of Queens Beach will be invaded by an estimated 250 competitors, including standout surfers Julia Christian (California), Marie Pierre Abgrall (France), Elise Garrigue (Maui), and Bethany Hamilton (Kaui). The combination of vibrant sunlight, tropical ocean waters, and the amazing Waikiki skyline ensures that this year's event will be a vibrant showcase for women's surfing. The competition will comprise 14 different divisions through a mix of dedicated and fearless shortboarders, longboarders, and bodyboarders. The age groups include a Pee-Wee division (age 10 and younger), Jr. Girls (11-16), Girls (17-29), and Women (30 and older). Also included in this year's event will be the "Battle of Da Kapunas," a division showcasing the talent of surfers 50 years and older.

The 7th Annual China Wahine Classic allows China Uemera and Rip Curl the opportunity to give back to the surfing community. Not only is the competition a showcase of upcoming talent in women's surfing, but it is also a chance to help the local Kapiolani Hospital generate support for sexually abused women and children.

"Rip Curl is again stoked to be involved with such a great event, showcasing our support for women's surfing. Queens Beach in downtown Waikiki is the perfect venue, and we wish all competitors the best of luck," said Adam Sharp, marketing director for Rip Curl USA.

Furthermore, the event provides a fun and relaxed environment and the opportunity for all involved to embrace the true Aloha spirit that is Hawaii--the heart of the surfing culture.

Competition begins this Saturday morning at Queens Beach, following a traditional Hawaiian opening ceremony. Heats for all divisions will run all day Saturday and Sunday, with the finals culminating by 4 p.m. Sunday afternoon.