27-Jan-2011 02:55 p.m.

King of the Waves

Legendary Raglan Surfer Daniel Kereopa was on fire at Piha this weekend, jumping straight out of the water after the Longboard Semi-finals round to grab his paddle then easily blitz the competition in the 3km SUP Surf Race, before jumping straight back in the water to win the finals of the Stand Up Paddle Surf event.

The Starboard "King of the Waves" SUP race was a new addition to the Hyundai Pro Longboard Tour this year, providing great spectator viewing as big sets came through the 20-strong pack of paddlers at crucial moments, creating carnage at the second buoy, and causing the leading paddler Jeremy Stephenson to lose his board for several minutes.

Strong paddlers Daniel Kereopa, Arnie Armstrong and Gisborne Starboard Team Rider Sean Hovell broke ahead of the pack by the third buoy rounding to take the top three places, with Auckland Starboard rider Troy Huston coming in fourth.

The SUP surf contest was held directly after the Race, with Daniel Kereopa, Lynden Kennings and Ryan Cowling of Whangamata taking the top three places, and Sean Hovell 4th.

It was a fun weekend on the West Coast for all, with the sun shining, waves rolling and thousands on the beach enjoying the great Kiwi summer.  Thanks to all those who came out to watch and participate in the Stand Up Paddling, particularly those who helped with safety during the race.

See you in Dunedin next weekend!

See photos on flickr

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