INTERNATIONAL TANDEM SURFING ASSOCIATION Bobby and Tiare Friedman show their tandem form. CLICK FOR LARGE

Tandem surfing competition will double up skill and fun

Head to Waikiki next weekend for a surfing demonstration we don't see every day.

The world's best tandem surfing teams will return to the sport's birthplace Aug. 23-25 for the World Title of Tandem Surfing, presented by Tsunami's Waikiki. The International Surfing Association-sanctioned event is part of the Duke's OceanFest Celebration.

Tandem surfing began at Waikiki in the 1920s, when Duke Kahanamoku and fellow Waikiki beachboys took women out on the waves to try surfing. The beachboys found it easier to manage the surfboard and the weight of two by hoisting the women on their shoulders.

Today the sport involves style, grace and skill and might be compared to couples dancing or figure skating, only on the waves. Teams consist of a man and a woman, with the woman being lifted to perform intricate poses while her partner maneuvers the board.

A dozen teams from Hawaii, France, Australia, Brazil, Florida and California will compete, including defending world tandem champions Brian Keaulana and Kathy Terada of Makaha.

There will also be tandem clinics offered from 10 a.m. to noon Aug. 22-25 at Waikiki Beach.