The Reef Hawaiian Pro, the first stop in the 2008 Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, is set to ignite Hawaii's competitive season starting Nov. 12-23 at Ali'i Beach located within Oahu's Haleiwa Beach Park.

This 6-star prime WQS event plays a major role for a field of over 260 male and female, international surfers looking to take home vital ratings points for 2009 ASP World Tour qualification, massive bragging rights, and a prize purse worth up to $170,000.

"The Reef Hawaiian Pro sets the tone for the rest of the Triple Crown events to follow," says Randy Rarick, Director of the Vans Triple Crown. "Both the Men and Women who do well at Haleiwa, put their stamp on the start of the North Shore competitive season and are destined to have their names etched in the record books.

This is a 'make it or break it' event, particularly for those vying for World Championship Tour qualification and as such, nothing can be discounted. This is the one event that the best drama never stops unfolding!" With the 2008 ASP World Title already secured by 9 times World Champion Kelly Slater, the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing has become center stage for the remainder of the 2008 professional surfing season.

The North Shore of Hawaii will once again act as the ultimate proving ground for athletes looking to capture a major surfing title. The Reef Hawaiian Pro defending men's champion, Roy Powers, will be guarding his title against North Shore standouts such as Sunny Garcia, Bobby Martinez, Andy Irons, Mick Fanning and local boy, Sean Moody.

On the women's side, the Reef Hawaiian Pro is the last WQS event and one of only three 6-star WQS events in 2008 making it a crucial event to gain points toward 2009 Women's ASP World Tour qualification. Defending champion and local North Shore resident Megan Abubo will look to protect her title by fending off female standouts Sofia Mulanovich, Stephenie Gilmore and local Melanie Bartels.