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

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

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

Oliver Puddick – Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service

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

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

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

Lucas Forbes – Mairangi Bay SLSC

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

Joseph Wilson – Mairangi Bay SLSC

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

Katrina Madill – Mount Maunganui SLSC

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