The prestigious Moloka‘i-2-O‘ahu Paddleboard World Championships (M2O), presented by the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, is back after a three-year break due to the pandemic. The excitement is palpable as athletes from around the world gear up for the thrilling challenge across the Ka‘iwi Channel on Sunday, 30th July 2023. The event boasts a sold-out international field of top paddlers, including some notable Australian contenders.
In the prone paddleboard race, Australian pride takes centre stage. Stewart McLachlan, a four-time M2O champion in the stock category, leads the pack. He’s set to go head-to-head with fellow Aussie Campbell Guthrie in the unlimited paddleboard category. Emerging talents like Callum Sutton and Kyle Smith, both from Australia and California respectively, promise to put up a strong fight in the stock paddleboard division.
The stand-up paddleboard (SUP) race is set to be an international spectacle, with racers from Japan, Italy, and Hawai’i going head-to-head as Kai Lenny sets his sights on another championship crossing of the Ka‘iwi Channel in SUP Foil.
Australian dominance continues in the new and exciting Wing Foil race, featuring renowned athletes like Zane Schweitzer and emerging talents like Finn Spencer and Bobo Gallagher.
With over half of the athletes being first-time entrants, the Moloka‘i-2-O‘ahu Paddleboard World Championships witness a renewed growth in the sport, making it an event not to be missed. Get ready to witness some electrifying racing as these incredible athletes take on the challenge of a lifetime.
“We are so excited by the response and momentum for our return to racing this year,” said Mike Takahashi, the race director and founder of the event. “Can’t wait to get back in the channel to witness some great racing.”
Get ready to watch Australia’s finest athletes taking on the challenge at the 24th Moloka‘i-2-O‘ahu Paddleboard World Championships.
For more information, visit Molokai2Oahu.com, and stay tuned for live satellite tracking of the athletes and results.
