Surfing: Ian Walsh conquers Big Wave Tour Pe'Ahi Challenge

The World Surf League's Big Wave Tour Pe'Ahi Challenge lived up to all the hype, delivering some of the biggest thrills and spills surfing can offer.

Off the coast of Hawaii brave surfers took to the infamous 'Jaws' break to conquer gigantic waves 15 metres high.

Some surfers were successful in their attempts while others copped nasty wipeouts and needed to be rescued by support teams on jetskis nearby. Even a lifeguard needed saving from the dangerous surf after coming off his jetski. 

Using his local knowledge to his advantage Hawaiian Ian Walsh claimed the title over countryman Billy Kemper.

“So stoked,” Walsh said after the victory.

"This is a really big honor and I’m stoked that I can follow up Billy and keep this thing on Maui.

"Everyone here surfed really really well and it was a pleasure to be in the water with them. It feels like one of those big free-surf days.

"Our sport progress as the waves get bigger and better so I'm really honoured and stoked."