News

Kiwis Come Out On Top at Hawai’i’s Treacherous Paddleboard Championships

Monday, 31 July 2023

Surf Life Saving members impressed at the prestigious Molokai2Oauhu Paddleboard World Championships in Hawai’i, held today.

 

The grueling 51-kilometre race across the Ka’iwi Channel, known as the Channel of Bones, is renowned as one of the most perilous stretches of ocean in the world.

 

Event organisers said, “The culmination of foul weather and open ocean swells pushing through the narrow canyon that is created by the two land masses of Molokai and Oahu has resulted in the destruction of entire ancient canoe fleets and claimed the lives of modern-day fisherman and watermen.”

 

The competition featured a number of race categories, including Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP), Prone Paddling, Foil, and Wing Foil.  Entrants showcased their skills either individually, in teams, or relay-style, all while closely followed by support boats ensuring their safety. 

 

 

SLSNZ Member Results:

 

Sam Shergold – Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service

2nd Male / 9th Overall Solo / 5:52:17

 

Oliver Puddick – Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service

1st 30-39 years / 13th Overall Solo / 6:06:16

 

Harry Hickey – Mairangi Bay SLSC/Tom Lowe – Mairangi Bay SLSC

3rd Men’s 1-79 years / 4th Overall 2 Person Team / 6:15:28

 

Lucas Forbes – Mairangi Bay SLSC

1st U19 years / 17th Overall Solo / 6:15:38

 

Joseph Wilson – Mairangi Bay SLSC

2nd 20-29 years / 19th Overall Solo / 6:20:33

 

Katrina Madill – Mount Maunganui SLSC

1st Female Unlimited Division Winner / 20th overall solo / 6:20:36