Mt Maunganui crowned Oceans 18 Champions

Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service have been crowned the 2018 Under-14 New Zealand Surf Life Saving Champions after the final day of racing was cancelled due to weather and swell conditions today.

The Oceans 18 event officials had to make the tough decision this morning on what was to be the last day after the swell meant they could not set up the course and ensure that racing would be fair to all athletes.

Oceans 18 event manager, Scott Bicknell said it's a disappointing way to end such a fantastic event but fairness and safety are the main priorities.

"Obviously we're disappointed that we had to cancel the last day of racing but the athletes wellbeing is our top priority, along with providing fun but fair racing conditions. We weren't going to be able to do that today due to the conditions so we had to make that decision and it was definitely our last resort option.

"Although we have to pass on a huge congratulations to Mt Maunganui on winning Oceans 18 this year. They raced well all weekend and deserve the win. I would also like to thank and congratulate all the other athletes for their effort this weekend, especially Lyall Bay and Whakatane who fought hard to finish on the podium."

The next major event on the SLSNZ calendar is the South Island IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boat) Championship next weekend at Warrington Beach, followed by the TSB New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championships, commonly referred to as 'Nationals', on March 15-18 in Gisborne.

Final points

1. Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service 46
2. Lyall Bay SLSC 40
3. Whakatane SLSC 28
4. Red Beach SLSC 26
5. Mairangi Bay SLSC 23
6. Omanu SLSC 23
7. Waikanae SLSC 22
8. Waihi Beach Lifeguard Services Inc 21
9. Orewa SLSC 19
10. Midway SLSC 16
11. Papamoa SLSC 15
12. Fitzroy SLSC 13
13. East End SLSC 12
14. Maranui SLSC 12
15. Whangamata SLSC 11
16. St Clair SLSC 10
17. Westshore SLSC 6
18. Bethells Beach SLSP 6
19. Titahi Bay SLSC 4
20. Sumner SLSC 4
21. New Plymouth Old Boys SLSC 4
22. Muriwai Volunteer Lifeguard Service Inc 3
23. Wainui SLSC 3  
24. Waikuku Beach SLSC 2
25. South Brighton SLSC 2
26. Ruakaka SLSC 2
27. Pauanui SLSC 1
28. Waimairi SLSC 1

For more information, please contact:

Alana McIsaac
Phone: 027 515 7157
Email: media@surflifesaving.org.nz