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AUSTRALIA WINS THIRD CONSECUTIVE TEAM GOLD MEDAL AT THE 2014 ISA WORLD STANDUP PADDLE AND PADDLEBOARD CHAMPIONSHIP IN NICARAGUA
11th May 2014
Casper Steinfath (DEN) And Shakira Westdorp (AUS) Win SUP Technical Races; Rhys Burrows (AUS) And Jordan Mercer (AUS) Win Paddleboard Technical Races; Australia Wins The ISA Relay
ISA President Fernando Aguerre (far left) and Minister of Tourism Mayra Salinas (far right), present Team Australia with the 2014 ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship Team Gold Medal and World Team Champion Plate. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
The Australians won 8 of the 12 Gold Medals earning them the overall Team Gold Medal and the World Team Champion Trophy.
Once again, on the final day of the 2014 ISA World StandUp Paddle and Paddleboard Championship (WSUPPC), Lake Nicaragua greeted all of the National Delegations with a beautiful and hot day to crown the remainder of the event’s World Champions. In the Paddleboard Technical Races, which were the first of the day, Australia’s Jordan Mercer and Rhys Burrows won the Gold Medals. The SUP Technical Races where next, and Australia’s Shakira Westdorp and Denmark’s Casper Steinfath won the Gold. The last event of the day was the ISA Relay, which Australia won.
Today’s four Gold Medalists put on incredible performances: (clockwise from top left) Jordan Mercer (AUS), Rhys Burrows (AUS), Shakira Westdorp (AUS) and Casper Steinfath (DEN). Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
“The 2014 ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship has been a total success, with the largest number of competitors in history. The event has grown from about 150 last year to nearly 250 in just one year, and it is now officially closed,” remarked ISA President Fernando Aguerre during the Closing Ceremony. “I am very happy about our host, the government and people of Nicaragua, and the private sector, who have done an amazing job on making this the most memorable ISA SUP and Paddleboard World Championship ever! It’s never easy to leave a place that has treated you very nice, so I’m sad that we’ll be leaving tomorrow, all as ambassadors of Nicaragua. Hopefully, we’ll be coming back soon to beautiful Nicaragua, the place where the offshore winds never stop, and where the water and air are always very warm.”
In their first ever participation in the ISA WSCUPPC, Team Nicaragua, placed 11th in the world. Most of the athletes started training in this disciple less than a month ago, with the athletes coming from other disciplines such as canoe, rowing, and swimming. This shows the dedication and determination to defend their home court, as the host of this World Championship.
The last day of competition started with the Women’s Paddleboard Technical Race Final, where the Aussie and undefeated ISA World Champion, Jordan Mercer (31:54) achieved yet another Gold Medal defeating USA’s Silver Medalist, Carter Graves (33:01), Spain’s Bronze Medalist, Itziar Abascal (33:27), and New Zealand’s Copper Medalist, Ashley Cochrane (34:42).
ISA President Fernando Aguerre with the four SUP Medalists. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
“I definitely went out to have a great start because we had a heavy head wind heading out to the first buoy, and as soon as we turned there was a nice downwind section,” said an elated Mercer. “I knew that if I got caught up on that first turn I wouldn’t get the advantage of that downwind and try to get a nice lead. I went out pretty hard at the start and to have the girls chasing me at my tail half way through, I was thinking it probably wasn’t the best idea as I was starting to get tiered and they were gaining on me, but thank goodness I was able to hold on.”
In the Men’s Paddleboard Technical Race Final, Australia’s Rhys Burrows took the Gold Medal after just winning the Long Distance Race Gold Medal the day before. In a time of 30:02, the Aussie defeated New Zealand’s Silver Medalist, Andrew Newton (30:18), Aussie Bronze Medalist, Rory Chapman (30:26), and South African Copper Medalist, Brandon Ribbink (31:10).
Australia’s Rhys Burrows. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
“It’s really cool to get two World Championships in two consecutive days. I’d say it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done,” commented Burrows.
In the Women’s SUP Technical Race Final, one of the standouts of the whole event, Australia’s Shakira Westdorp, who medaled in three different disciplines, won the Gold Medal in a time of 31:27. The Aussie defeated Canada’s Silver Medalist Lina Augaitis (31:33), Costa Rica’s Bronze Medalist, Jenny Kalmback (31:46), and USA’ Copper Medalist, Shae Foudy (33:33).
ISA President Fernando Aguerre with the Paddleboard Medalists. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
“I’m over the moon!,” said an elated Westdorp. “I didn’t expect it, I was hoping to be amongst the finalist, but to take the win against a tough field, I’m so stoked. It was a really hard race and I got off to a good start and used the downwind sections to my advantage.”
Australia’s Shakira Westdorp. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
The Men’s SUP Technical Race Final was a nail-biting showdown. The lead pack quickly separated from the field in a group of 11 racers. The American Slater Trout led the pack until Mexico’s Fernando Stalla overtook him. The Mexican racer was shooting for gold, but in the last lap, he took a fall while rounding a buoy, and lost the lead. While Trout and Stalla were battling it out for the lead, the defending Champion, Casper Steinfath (DEN), was waiting for the right moment to strike with the energy he had conserved. After rounding the final buoy, Steinfath was in a full sprint and was able to overtake the lead and defend his Gold Medal
Denmark’s Casper Steinfath leading the pack. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
“I have so many emotions goings through my body right now,” said a jubilant Steinfath. “I came into the race and paddled my hardest against the best in the world and I’m honored to get my second Gold Medal in two years. It’s just unreal, I never dreamt of this. I was so nervous before this race so it’s nice to get the pressure off my shoulders. Once you are in the water it’s just pure commitment and fun. I especially want to thank the ISA, it’s fantastic to be here.”
Australia’s Lincoln Dews won the Silver Medal (29:23), USA’s Slater Trout won the Bronze (29:26), and Eric Terrien won the Copper Medal (29:39).
ISA President Fernando Aguerre with the SUP Medalists. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
To conclude, the exciting ISA Relay Race took place, featuring the top eight Teams. After a tough battle, Australia finished in first followed by United States, Spain, Brazil, Peru, South Africa, Mexico, and Venezuela.
For full results click here
Overall team results:
1. Australia – 16,750
2. USA – 13,100
3. Brazil – 10,667
4. Spain – 10,501
5. France – 9,532
6. Mexico – 9,398
7. South Africa – 9,032
8. Peru – 8,671
9. Venezuela – 8,266
10. New Zealand – 8,261
11. Nicaragua – 7,527
12. Great Britain – 7,360
13. Guatemala – 6,234
14. Canada – 6,180
15. Denmark – 5,053
16. Costa Rica – 3,870
17. Ireland – 2,670
18. Italy – 2,300
19. El Salvador – 2,080
19. Tahiti – 2,080
21. Chile – 1,870
22. Latvia – 1,865
23. Germany – 1,560
24. Colombia – 1,360
25. Japan – 1,276
26. Panama – 1,200
27. Barbados – 720
EPIC 18 KM MEN’S SUP AND PADDLEBOARD LONG DISTANCE RACE ON LAKE NICARAGUA
10th May 2014
France’s Titouan Puyo Wins the SUP Race and Australia’s Rhys Burrows Wins The Paddleboard Race at the 2014 ISA World StandUp Paddle and Paddleboard Championship
Titouan Puyo from France is the new Men’s World SUP Long Distance Champion after defeating a stacked field of competitors on an epic 18 Km race on Lake Nicaragua. Photo:ISA/Michael Tweddle
Day 7 saw epic Men’s SUP and Paddleboard 18 Km Long Distance Races at the 2014 ISA World StandUp Paddle and Paddleboard Championship (WSUPPC). Over 60 of the world’s best SUP and Paddleboarders took on the exciting long distance course that navigates through the 365 “Isletas of Granada” on Lake Nicaragua.
Australian Rhys Burrows (right) won the Gold Medal and New Zealand’s Sam Shergold won the Silver Medal in the Men’s Paddleboard Long Distance race. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
In a high caliber field of competitors from every corner of the world, the Gold Medalists, and new World Champions are France’s Titouan Puyo and Australia’s Rhys Burrows in the SUP and Paddleboard races respectively.
“These stellar athletes have done a tremendous job racing through the most beautiful islands on Lake Nicaragua for 18 kilometers in about two hours. Today was another amazing day in the ISA World Championship, with a lot of excitement in the water and on the beach. As the event comes to an end tomorrow, lots of new friendships have been started, and old ones strengthened. Twelve Gold Medals will be awarded, but the competition has included 260 national stars of the top 27 SUP nations in the world. On Sunday we will be crowning the Technical and Relay Races Champions, and holding the Closing Ceremony awarding individual and World Team Champions.”
Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
The ISA President welcomed every one of the racers as they crossed the finish line, handing them a cold bottle of water to help cool them down after a grueling race, especially the last 2 Km, which was a stiff upwind leg.
The Men’s SUP Long Distance Race kicked off with 15 of the 35 racers forming a lead pack. At first, the group was led by Mexico’s Fernando Stalla, who took off in a sprint out of the start followed by Slater Trout (USA), Eric Terrien (FRA), and Casper Steinfath (DEN), amongst others. Then, Americans, Trout and Chuck Glynn worked as a team to take the lead. The front running train also included racers from Australia, South Africa and Brazil.
Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
The South African racer, Ethan Koopmans, suffered a shocker, as he was part of the lead pack and was closing in on the leaders, but in the middle of his effort his paddle broke in half. However, Koopmans did not give up, and even though he finished in last place, he completed the course paddling, holding his broken paddle in his hand.
South Africa’s Ethan Koopmans. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
As the race progressed through the picturesque islands, the French duo, Puyo, a downwind specialist, and his teammate, Terrien, took over the lead and seemed to be uncatchable. The Americans, Stalla, and Steinfath did their best to keep up, but only the Aussie, Lincoln Dews, the 2013 ISA World Paddleboard Silver Medalist, was able to remain close to the leader.
In the end, Puyo (FRA, 1:49:25) took the Gold Medal, Dews (AUS, 1:50:24), the Silver, Terrien (FRA, 1:50:43), the Bronze, and Vinicius Martins (BRA, 1:51:12), the Copper.
France’s Gold Medalist Titouan Puyo. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
“It feels amazing!,” said an elated Puyo about being World Champion. “It was a good race, very difficult at the beginning because of the drafting, since there were so many of us in the first group when we were going through the islands. I knew that if I was in first at the buoy before the open water downwind part, it would be good, and I did it. In the downwind, I was first and I never stopped.”
In the Men’s Paddleboard Long Distance Race, the athletes took off in a sprint from the start and never looked back. The leader’s pack included Rhys Burrows (AUS), Sam Shergold (NZL), Rory Chapman (AUS), and David Buil Sanz (SPA). Despite changing of positions throughout the course, it was the Aussie and Kiwi that sprinted to the finish line.
As Burrows and Shergold approached the finish line, the Aussie had enough left in the tank to outsprint his fellow competitor and took the Gold finishing in 1:55:12.
Rhys Burrows (AUS) and Sam Shergold (NZL) sprinting to the final. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
“It was definitely a very hard race. It was very hot especially when you are in between the islands and there’s no wind, but once you get out in the open lake, the wind is a lot better. I hope there’s a bit of wind chop tomorrow so I can go for another Gold in the Technical Race Final.”
New Zealand’s Sam Shergold earned the Silver Medal (1:55:17), Australia’s Rory Chapman, the Bronze Medal (1:58:01), and Spain’s David Buil Sanz, the Copper Medal (1:59:10).
Of special note was the local SUP Racer Norwin Estrella, who finished 23rd in the world with a credible time of 2:07:24.
Nicaragua’s Norwin Estrella. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
“I feel very happy to have finished this stage of StandUp Paddle Racing. I feel tired now, but I’m glad I finished the race despite all the challenges along the way and the pressure of the other competitors. After all, I was able to place amongst the best in the world in this category. I’m happy to be here and it’s an honor and I feel proud to represent my country of Nicaragua in both StandUp Paddle and SUP Surfing.”
Another special story was the Delgado family, who are Team Peru members. Raul and his son Itzel both competed in the SUP Long Distance Race, and Raul’s wife, Lizenka competed yesterday in the Women’s SUP Long Distance Course. It was a beautiful sight to see the whole family supporting and cheering on each other in their races.
Team Peru’s Delgado family, Mother Lizenka (left), father Raul (center), and son Itzel (right). Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle.
Competition concludes on Sunday with The Morning Show hosted by Beau Hodge and Jamie Mitchell at 8:40am, followed by:
9:00am- Women’s Prone Technical Race Final
9:45am- Men’s Prone Technical Race Final
10:30- Women’s SUP Technical Race Final
11:15am- Men’s SUP Technical Race Final
12:00pm- ISA Relay Race Final
Closing Ceremony
Watch the live webcast here- http://isawsuppc.com/live/
CANADA’S LINA AUGAITIS AND AUSTRALIA’S JORDAN MERCER CLAIM GOLD IN THE 18KM LONG DISTANCE RACES
9th May 2014
Amazing Women’s SUP And Paddleboard Performances On Lake Nicaragua During Day 6 Of The ISA World StandUp Paddle And Paddleboard Championship
ISA President Fernando Aguerre with the two Long Distance Gold Medalists, Australia’s Jordan Mercer (left), the 3-times ISA World Paddleboard Long Distance Champion and Canada’s Lina Augaitis (right), the ISA World SUP Long Distance Champion. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
Another beautiful, hot and windy day on Lake Nicaragua set the stage for the Women’s SUP and Paddleboard Long Distance Races, where Canada’s Lina Augaitis won the 18km SUP Race and Australia’s Jordan Mercer won the 18km Paddleboard Race.
Canada’s Lina Augaitis is the new ISA Women’s World SUP Long Distance Champion, after finishing the 18km course in 1:58:24 to win the Gold Medal. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
The world’s best female SUP and Paddleboard Racers navigated their way to the medals through the “Isletas de Granada” on Day 6 of the ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship (WSUPPC). The 365 islands provided an amazing backdrop for the race as the athletes navigated through the course located southeast of the city of Granada.
Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
“What a day!,” remarked a jubilant ISA President Fernando Aguerre. “We are in the beautiful Lake Nicaragua and had an amazing day of racing. The ladies impressed me today in the challenging 18km distance race under the strong Nicaraguan heat. Everyone put on an incredible fight through the islands and then, of course, the final kilometer against the wind, the toughest part of the competition. Congratulations to all of the ladies for their amazing effort.”
In the Women’s Paddleboar Long Distance Race, Aussie Jordan Mercer achieved her third consecutive Gold Medal and ISA World Championship. USA’s Carter Craves earned the Silver Medal and Spain’s Itzair Abascal Rivero, the Bronze Medal. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
In the Women´s SUP Race, Canada’s Lina Augaitis is the new ISA Women’s World SUP Long Distance Champion, after finishing the 18 kilometer course in 1:58:24 to win the Gold Medal. The Canadian and the Australian, Shakira Westdorp took off from the start and separated themselves from the pack, but it was ultimately Augaitis who finished in 1st and earned the Gold Medal.
“This race had a little bit of everything, flatwater, some head wind, some really hard side chop, and a really nice downwind,” said the elated Gold Medalist, Augaitis. “The scenery was beautiful with the islands, and the monkeys came out and cheered us on. For a distance race, it’s the kind I like. I like point-to-point races because they are an adventure and you don’t know what’s coming up next, so I thought it was a really great course.”
Canada’s Gold Medalist Lina Augaitis. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
Westdorp earned the Silver Medal (AUS, 2:00:20) after winning the Bronze Medal just three days ago in La Boquita in the SUP Surfing. Barbara Brazil (BRA, 2:02:49) won Bronze, and the 15 year-old Shae Foudy (USA, 2:03:40), the Copper.
In the Women’s Paddleboard Long Distance Race, Aussie Jordan Mercer achieved her third consecutive Gold Medal and ISA World Championship. The 20 year-old Australian once again showed her talent by taking the lead from the start of the race, along with USA’s Carter Graves, who followed closely for the first few kilometers of the race. With 7 kilometers to go, Mercer left Graves behind and finished the race in 1:59:16.
“For me,” said Mercer while recovering in the in the winners circle. “The preparation is very important. I don’t like to enter races I’m not 100% prepared for and to know that I’m going to give the best I possibly can. When it comes to race day, all of the hard work is done and it becomes a mental game, so staying positive, making the right decisions, and racing smart is often better than racing hard.”
Mercer continued talking about her experience on the course: “It was absolutely amazing to take in the beauty of where we are when we are hurting so much in the race. We were working our way and navigating through all of these islands, and everywhere you looked it’s just beautiful islands, big rocks, and trees. It was a real adventure trying to make our way through the course and navigate to where we needed to be. I really enjoyed when we came out of the islands and went downwind and got to chase all the bumps and surf our way. Although, to finish off that race was a massive headwind coming back home and was one of the toughest parts.”
USA’s Carter Craves earned the Silver Medal (2:02:20), Spain’s Itzair Abascal Rivero, the Bronze Medal (2:09:49), and New Zealand’s Ashley Cochrane, the Copper Medal (2:17:19).
Of special note was the local SUP Racer Ana Vanegas, who finished 10th in the world with a time of 2:26:23. Vanegas is a seasoned canoe paddler that trains and competes in this discipline, who lives in one of the islands, and just learned how to SUP race less than two weeks ago. Her sister Maria is also representing Nicaragua and competed today in the Paddleboard Race and finished in 10th as well.
Nicaragua’s Ana Vanegas. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
“It was tough because of the conditions, but I maintained myself,” said Ana Vanegas. “I was focused on the racer ahead of me and was trying to catch her. I am very happy and very proud to represent my country.”
Competition resumes on Saturday with The Morning Show hosted by Beau Hodge and Jamie Mitchell at 8:40am, followed by the Men’s SUP and Paddleboard Long Distance Race at 9:00am. The course will run through the breathtaking “Isletas of Granada” and will be 18km in length.
Watch the live webcast here- http://isawsuppc.com/live/
SUP RACING UNDERWAY ON LAKE NICARAGUA
8th May 2014
SUP And Paddleboard Technical Races Plus Relay Race Finalists Decided On Day 5 Of The ISA World Standup Paddle And Paddleboard Championship
Casper Steinfath from Denmark, defending ISA World Champion, had the best overall time of the day in the SUP Technical Race, finishing in 25:00. Steinfath was in 4th place with only 300m to go in the race, but the experienced champion kicked in to high gear and blew past his fellow competitors. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
The racing portion of the 2014 ISA World StandUp Paddle and Paddleboard Championship has officially kicked off on Thursday in the historical and colonial city of Granada, on the picturesque Lake Nicaragua.
USA’s Carter Craves, the 2013 Catalina Classic Women’s Champion, led the pack in the Women’s Paddleboard Technical Race. The American finished in 29:06, over two minutes faster that the 2012 and 2013 ISA World Paddleboard Champion, Jordan Mercer. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
The SUP and Paddleboard Technical Races, plus the ISA Relay Race semifinals took place during Day 5 of the ISA WSUPPC. The world’s best raced for a spot in the Grand Finals that will take place on Sunday.
Sunny skies, hot weather and Lake Nicaragua’s typically strong winds greeted the athletes from the start of today’s competition.
“We are here at beautiful Lake Nicaragua,” remarked an excited ISA President, Fernando Aguerre. “This lake has a remarkable and meaningful history. In addition to their beauty, the 365 islands on the lake are home to some of Nicaragua’s team members. For generations, the only means of travelling around these islands was by paddling canoes. We feel very special as guests in their home, having the first ever Nicaraguan SUP Team competing in this ISA World Championship.”
The first race in the water was the Paddleboard Technical Races for Men and Women. The best racer in the Men’s was Australia’s Rhys Burrows, who competed in Heat 2. Burrows finished his race in 26:31 and secured a spot on Sunday’s final.
Australia’s Rhys Burrows. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
In heat #2 of the Women’s Paddleboard Technical Race, USA’s Carter Craves, the 2013 Catalina Classic Women’s Champion, led the pack. The American finished in 29:06 to defeat her rivals. In heat #1 the 2012 and 2013 ISA WSUPPC Gold Medalist, Jordan Mercer won her Heat in 31:11. Finishing more than two minutes behind Craves, Mercer has her work cut out in the finals.
2012 and 2013 ISA WSUPPC Gold Medalist, Jordan Mercer (AUS), and Spain’s Itziar Abascal Rivero. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
Up next was the SUP Technical Racers, who also gave a great show to the hundreds of local spectators that visited Lake Nicaragua today. The 8 buoy, butterfly shaped course of 6km in length provided an exciting platform for the races.
In the Men’s SUP Technical Race, Casper Steinfath from Denmark, defending ISA World Champion, had the best overall time of the day, finishing in 25:00. Steinfath was in 4th place with only 300m to go in the race, but the experienced champion kicked in to high gear and blew past the Mexico’s Fernando Stalla (25:03), Brazil’s Vinicius Martins (25:08) and USA’s Chuck Glynn (25:12).
The fastest racer in the Women’s SUP Technical Race was Canada’s Lina Augaitis, 2014 Abu Dhabi All Stars Grand Slam Champion. Augaitis finished in 26:48 defeating 2013 ISA WSUPPC Gold Medalist, Shakira Westdorp (27:01) from Australia.
The day closed with the exciting ISA Team Relay Races, where Team USA set the pace with the best time of 18:07, almost a minute faster then the second place finisher in heat #2. In heat #1 the Australia took a commanding lead and finished in first with a time of 18:24.
Competition resumes on Friday with The Morning Show hosted by Beau Hodge and Jamie Mitchell at 8:40am, followed by the Women’s SUP and Paddleboard Distance Race at 9:00am. The long distance course will run through the breathtaking “Isletas of Granada” and will be 18km in length.
Watch the live webcast here- http://isawsuppc.com/live/
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TAHITI’S POENAIKI RAIOHA AND USA’S EMMY MERRILL ARE THE 2014 ISA WORLD SUP SURFING CHAMPIONS
6th May 2014
The 17 Year-Old Tahitian And 20 Year-Old American Gold Medalists Demonstrate The Arrival Of A New Generation In The Sport
Continuing his stellar performances from the first two days of competition, Tahiti’s Poenaiki Raioha is the new ISA Men’s World SUP Surfing Champion. The 17 year-old earned two impressive scores of 8.93 and 8.57 for a total heat score of 17.50, the highest of the entire event. Photo: ISA/Tweddle and Gonzales
The SUP Surfing in the 2014 ISA World StandUp Paddle and Paddleboard Championship (WSUPPC) concluded today and the Gold Medalists were crowned. Tahiti’s Poenaiki Raioha and USA’s Emmy Merrill are the 2014 ISA SUP Surfing World Champions.
The young World Champions, Raioha, who is 17 years-old and the 20 year old, Merrill, who demonstrated the arrival of a new generation in the sport. Merrill made history in the ISA, as the first women in SUP Surfing to win two Gold Medals since the start of the ISA WSUPPC in 2012.
USA’s Emmy Merrill reclaimed her Gold Medal and the World Championship after posting a total heat score of 13.50 in the Final, the second highest score of the event in the Women’s division. Merrill took advantage of the improved afternoon conditions and earned a 5.83 and a 7.67 to become the two-time ISA World Champion. Photo: ISA/Tweddle and Gonzalez
In one of the most exciting SUP Surfing days in history, the world’s best took advantage of La Boquita’s great waves. The surf condition improved with the best and biggest waves on the Final Day. Contest organizers decided to take a break during the mid-day low tide to allow for optimal conditions during the finals, and the decision paid off, as the action was non-stop in the Grand Final with excellent rides and scores.
“What an incredible day!,” said an excited ISA President Fernando Aguerre. “The level of the final top guys and girls was very intense and very good. We waited for the better conditions by taking a break in the middle of the day and the waves improved and the wind calmed down for the finals.
What a final! A 20 year-old from California and a 17 year-old from Tahiti won the Gold Medals. It’s really a big deal as it shows the coming of a new generation.”
The first Grand Final in the water was the Women’s SUP Surfing, where USA’s Emmy Merrill reclaimed her Gold Medal and the World Championship after posting a total heat score of 13.50 in the Final, the second highest score of the event in the Women’s division. Merrill took advantage of the improved afternoon conditions and earned a 5.83 and a 7.67 to become the two-time ISA World Champion.
“I’m over the moon! It was awesome two years ago to claim the title in the first event and I was stoked about it,” said Merrill. “Last year I couldn’t come back because I was busy with school. I was hoping it wouldn´t be too much pressure on myself to try reclaim the title, but I’m so happy I did.”
The Silver Medal went to France’s Caroline Angibaud (9.27), Bronze to Australia’s Shakira Westdorp (9.23), and Copper to Spain’s Iballa Ruano (5.28).
France’s Silver Medalist Caroline Angibaud. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
Next up was the Men’s SUP Surfing Final, the most entertaining heats of the entire contest. Continuing his stellar performances from the first two days of competition, Tahiti’s Poenaiki Raioha is the new Men’s World SUP Surfing Champion. Raioha earned two impressive scores of 8.93 and 8.57 for a total heat score of 17.50, the highest of the entire event. The 17 year-old Tahitian kept great composure at such a young age and handled the pressure of his fellow competitors well. The Tahitian was patient and waited for the best waves of the heat and his strategy resulted in a Gold Medal.
“I’m really happy. This is my first participation in an ISA World Championship, and to be the first one, I’m very stoked!,” said Raioha. “I needed big waves to apply big maneuvers so I was waiting for the right wave to have a good result. When I learned to surf I started with a shortboard, then I moved to a longboard and after, my father introduced me to SUP, and ever since, I’ve been practicing every day after school with my father and my grandfather.”
The Silver Medal went to Australia’s Jackson Close (14.17), Bronze to France’s Antoine Delpero (14.17), and Copper to USA’s Sean Poynter (11.07).
Australia’s Silver Medalist Jackson Close. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
For the full results click here- http://isawsuppc.com/results/
The 2014 ISA WSUPCC will move back to Granada for the SUP and Paddleboard races on Lake Nicaragua. Wednesday will be a transition day and no races will take place. All the action begins with the Technical and Relay Races on Thursday followed by the Women’s Long distance Race on Friday, the Men’s Long Distance Race on Saturday, and the Technical and Relay Race Finals, and Closing Ceremony on Sunday.
Stay tuned and watch the live webcast starting back on Thursday- http://isawsuppc.com/live/
Men’s SUP Surfing Results:
Gold Medal- Poenaiki Raioha (TAH)
Siliver Medal- Jackson Close (AUS)
Bronze Medal- Antoine Delpero (FRA)
Copper Medal- Sean Poynter (USA)
Women’s SUP Surfing:
Gold Medal- Emmy Merrill (USA)
Silver Medal- Caroline Angibaud (FRA)
Bronze Medal- Shakira Westdorp (AUS)
Copper Medal- Iballa Ruano (SPA)
SUP SURFING CHAMPIONS TO BE CROWNED IN NICARAGUA ON TUESDAY
Excellent Performances Continued On Monday During Day 2 Of The ISA World Standup Paddle And Paddleboard Championship
Brazil’s Carlos Bahia was one of the standouts of the day, who will attempt to make the Grand Final through the Repechage Rounds on Tuesday. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
La Boquita, Nicaragua, May 5, 2014- The 2014 Men’s and Women’s SUP Surfing Gold Medalists will be decided on Tuesday, the Final Day of the SUP Surfing portion of the 2014 ISA World StandUp Paddle and Paddleboard Championship (WSUPPC) in Nicaragua.
South Africa’s Tarryn Kyte dropped to the Repechage Round today in a tough heat, but is determined to make her country proud and win a medal. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
SUP Surfing competition continued on Monday, Day 2 of the ISA WSUPPC with excellent performances from the best men and women SUP Surfers in very contestable waves in La Boquita, Nicaragua.
The surf conditions in La Boquita offered long rides, allowing the surfers to perform a variety of maneuvers. The surf remained contestable in the 2-3 feet range, with bigger sets during the favorable high tide in the morning and late afternoon. With the low tide at 12:30pm, contest organizers decided to take a two-hour break, to allow the surfers to take advantage of the best surf on offer.
The event site at La Boquita Beach. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
“Today was one of the most exciting small wave SUP Surfing days in competition I have ever watched!,” remarked an elated ISA President Fernando Aguerre. “Tuesday, the Final Day of the SUP Surfing competition is going to be a spectacular day as the surf is expected to get bigger. The competition has reached its most critical stage, as the new Men’s and Women’s SUP Surfing World Champions will be crowned. I wish the best of luck to all of the competitors.”
Peru’s Tamil Martino. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
Day 2 started with Qualifying Rounds 3 of Men and Women SUP Surfing. The standouts of the round were France´s Jeremy Massiere and Emmy Merrill, from USA.
Massiere, the French National SUP runner-up, posted the highest heat total score of the round, earning 11.40, defeating Poenaiki Raioha (TAH, 9.80), Tamil Martino (PER, 8.80) and Lucas Medeiros (BRA, 6.20).
Merril, the 2012 ISA WSUPPC Gold Medalist posted 11.27, the highest total heat score of the Round, to defeat Iballa Ruano (SPA, 7.83) and Tarryn Kyte (RSA, 6.63).
Up next, the Repechage Round took place and the first competitors were eliminated from the event.
The standout of the round was the 2013 ISA Men’s SUP Surfing Gold Medalist, USA’s Sean Poynter, who managed to post the highest total heat score and individual wave of the event, so far, of 16.40 and 9.33 respectively.
USA’s Sean Poynter. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
“Yesterday was a shock for me, I didn’t link with any waves,” said Poynter. “I wanted to turn it around today, so I put out my best, got some waves under my belt and raised the score lines. I’m not done yet, I still have a lot more surfing to do ahead of me to make it to the final round, but I’m feeling good and looking forward to tomorrow.”
In the Women´s Repechage, the 3-time Australian SUP National Champion, Shakira Westdorp posted the highest heat total score of the round, 11.50, to defeat Costa Rica’s Jenny Kalmbach (4.97) and Holly Bassett (2.37) from Great Britain.
For a full list of results, click here- http://isawsuppc.com/results/
Day 3, will begin with The Morning Show at 7:40am hosted by Beau Hodge and will feature South Africa team members Justin Bing and Tarryn Kyte, followed by the competition with:
Webcast announcers ISA World Champion, Jamie Mitchell and host, Beau Hodge. Photo: ISA/Jose Duarte
2 heats of Men’s Repechage 5
2 heats of Men’s Qualifying 4
2 heats of Women’s Repechage 4
2 heats of Men’s Repechage 6
1 heats of Men’s Qualifying 5
1 heats of Women’s Qualifying 4
1 heats of Women’s Repechage 5
1 heats of Men’s Repechage 7
1 heats of Women’s Repechage Final
1 heats of Men’s Repechage Final
Final Women
Final Men
Here is the schedule for the third day of the 2014 ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship live webcast:
Tuesday, 7:40am Nicaragua
Tuesday, 6:40am West Coast USA
Tuesday, 3:40pm Western Europe
Tuesday, 11:40pm Sydney, Australia
Watch the live webcast here- http://isawsuppc.com/live/
4 ISA WORLD SUP AND PADDLEBOARD CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWCASES HIGH PERFORMANCE SUP SURFING
4th May 2014
The Best Men And Women SUP Surfers From Around The World Have Come Together In Nicaragua
Tahiti’s 17 year-old, Poenaiki Raioha was the standout of the day putting on an impressive performance in La Boquita, earning the two highest total heat scores of the day of 14.97 and 14.50. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
La Boquita, Nicaragua, May 4, 2014- The SUP Surfing competition of the 2014 ISA World StandUp Paddle and Paddleboard Championship (WSUPPC) is underway. Day 1 featured amazing high performance SUP Surfing in the beautiful waves of Nicaragua.
Spain’s Iballa Ruano was the top performer in the Women’s division earning the highest single wave score of the day with 8.0 with high performance maneuvers in La Boquita Beach. Photo: ISA Michael Tweddle
The best men and women SUP surfers from around the world gathered in La Boquita beach. La Boquita is located in the municipality of Diriamba, along the Pacific Coast, just over an hour drive south west of the capital city, Managua.
The wave at La Boquita is sand and rock bottomed beach break that offers long rights and lefts. It allows for the surfers to perform a variety of maneuvers on its open wave faces and is well suited for SUP Surfing.
Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
The surf was in the 2-3 feet range with some bigger sets. The contestable conditions were best during the morning and afternoon higher tide, when the wave’s form is best. During low tide, the rides have more sections and typically are shorter in length of ride. Nicaragua is famous for its usually strong offshore winds that are caused by Lake Nicaragua, but today, the phenomenon was evident in the afternoon when the sideshore winds picked up.
“In just three editions of this World Championship, each year I am amazed by the progression of the sport,” said a jubilant ISA President Fernando Aguerre. “Not only is the equipment getting better, but also the level of performance is incredible. The world’s best men and women SUP Surfers are pushing the boundaries to new levels.
It’s a very special feeling to see all the National Teams cheering on each other and being able to witness the universal camaraderie of the sport. I encourage everyone around the world to share these special moments by watching the live webcast all week long.”
Day 1 of the ISA WSUPPC featured the opening Qualifying Rounds 1 and 2 of the Men’s and Women’s SUP Surfing. The standouts of t the day were Tahiti’s Poenaiki Raioha in the Men’s side and Spain’s Iballa Ruano in the Women’s.
Raioha put on an impressive performance in La Boquita, earning the two highest total heat scores of 14.97 and 14.50. The 17 year-old from Papeete advanced to the next Qualifying round and is one step closer to the final.
Ruano, the 2013 ISA WSUPPC Bronze Medalist, is on a quest for gold, earning the highest single wave score of 8.00 and total heat score of 14.17 in the Women’s division. The Spaniard defeated Mexico’s Karen Jacobson (9.10) and El Salvador’s Josselyn Alabi (3.13).
Today, regardless of the athlete’s placing, no one has lost out of the competition. All the athletes placing 1st and 2nd moved on to the next round and all athletes that placed 3rd and 4th move on to the Repechage Round, where they will get one more chance.
Notable performances of the day included 2012 ISA WSUPPC Gold Medalist Antoine Delpero (FRA), 2012 Australia SUP National Champion Beau Nixon (AUS), and Gold Coast native Jackson Close (AUS), all of whom have advanced to Qualifying Round 3. A huge upset was the loss of defending ISA World Champion, Sean Poytner (USA), who has fallen into the Repechage round, where he will get one last chance at defending his Gold Medal
France’s Antoine Delpero. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
Other women standouts include South Africa’s SUP National Champion, Tarryn Kytes (RSA), 2012 ISA WSUPPC Gold Medalist, Emmy Merril (USA), and 2013 ISA WSUPPC Copper Medalist, Caroline Angibaud (FRA), all of whom have advanced to Qualifying Round 3.
USA’s Emmy Merril. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
For a full list of results, click here- http://isawsuppc.com/results/
Day 2, will begin with The Morning Show at 7:40am hosted by Beau Hodge and will feature Denmark team members Casper Steinfath and Annette Carsing, followed by the competition with:
3 heats of Men’s Qualifying 3
2 heats of Women’s Qualifying 3
5 heats of Men’s Repechage 1
3 heats of Women’s Repechage 2
6 heats of Men’s Repechage 2
3 heats of Men’s Repechage 3
2 heats of Women’s Repechage 3
3 heats of Men’s Repechage 4
Here is the schedule for the second day of the 2014 ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship live webcast:
Monday, 7:40am Nicaragua
Monday, 6:40am West Coast USA
Monday, 3:40pm Western Europe
Monday, 11:40pm Sydney, Australia
Watch the live webcast here- http://isawsuppc.com/live/
THE 2014 ISA WORLD STANDUP PADDLE AND PADDLEBOARD CHAMPIONSHIP IS OFFICIALLY OPEN
3rd May 2014
27 National Delegations Marched Through The Streets Of Granada In The Parade Of Nations During The Opening Ceremony In Front Of Thousands Of Nicaraguans
ISA Vice President Alan Atkins and Ministry of Tourism Mayra Salinas amongst the flags of the 27 National Teams, officially declared open the 2014 ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
The 2014 ISA World StandUp Paddle and Paddleboard Championship, was declared officially open this Saturday, May 3, 2014. In attendance were the 27 countries that traveled to Nicaragua from every corner of the world. Local authorities, officials and thousands of enthusiastic locals were witnesses to the start of the 3rd annual World Championship.
The National Delegations walked through La Calzada Street, located at the heart of the historic, colonial city of Granada, as thousands of local spectators cheered them on. Granada is a city with rich culture and history as it was founded in 1524, and is one of the oldest cities in the Americas.
The 27 National Delegations parading down the historical and colonial streets of Granada in front of thousands of local spectators during the parade of nations. ISA/Rommel Gonzales
Following the arrival of all of the National Teams to the main stage, adjacent to the beautiful Lake Nicaragua, a flag bearer waving their national flag and a sand pourer, placed the sand from their local beach into a glass container symbolizing the peaceful gathering of nations through the love of surfing.
The host country, Team Nicaragua, topping off the Sands of The World. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
“I want to congratulate and thank so much the people of Nicaragua, the government of Nicaragua headed by the President, Daniel Ortega, the Minister of Tourism Mayra Salinas, and all of the other ministries and departments of the central and local governments of Nicaragua” said ISA President Fernado Aguerre. “I would also like to thank the private sector, the many great sponsors that have become a part of this event.”
The dignitaries with the “Sands Of The World,” (from L to R) Local Organizer Lucy Valenti, National Olympic Committee President Emmet Lang, Mayor of Granada Julia Mena, Minister of Tourism Mayra Salinas ISA Vice Presidents Karin Sierralta and Alan Atkins, and Mayor of Diriamba Fernando Baltodano
Aguerre continued, “This is the 3rd ISA World Championship organized in Nicaragua. Surf and StandUp in their versions on waves and racing on flat water, demonstrate their potential as sports that unite countries and ends the distances that separate such nations.”
(from L to R) The Hector Velarde Men’s SUP Surfing Perpetual Trophy, the Team Champion Plate, and the Hector Velarde Women’s SUP Surfing Perpetual Trophy. Photo: ISA/ Rommel Gonzales
“Here we have 27 countries representing 5 continents of the world with all type of languages, races, religion, cultures, different socioeconomic levels, with everyone coexisting together for these 10 days during the World Championship here in Nicaragua,” concluded President Aguerre.
“Welcome to Nicaragua, welcome to Granada, and welcome to La Boquita. Our country prepares for the festivities, friendship, the cultural diversity and world class sport after the inauguration of the third ISA World StandUp Paddle and Paddleboard Championship,” remarked the Minister of Tourism Mayra Salinas.”
Minister Salinas continued, “We are very proud to receive and welcome to this warm land, all the athletes from the 27 countries from every continent. Nicaragua is blessed with great natural resources for the practice of SUP and Paddleboard, with pristine beaches and lakes, and that is why President Daniel Ortega has supported the development of ISA events, as an opportunity to promote the practice of a new sport that helps the growth of tourism in the country.”
Following the ISA President’s address, “Tepenahualt” performed a local folklore ballet. Their dance was called “El Solar de Monibo,” which represented the indigenous community of Monimbo in Masaya, part of the rich culture of Nicaragua. The cultural dances kept the visiting athlete excited and entertained throughout the ceremony.
Another special ceremony took place when the Mayor of Granda Julia Mena awarded the keys to the city of Granada to the ISA President Fernando Aguerre. The Mayor of Diriamba, Fernando Baltodano presented a special gift to the ISA President that represents “El Gueguense,” a piece of theater during Nicaragua’s colonial times.
ISA Vice President Alan Atkins being presented the keys to the city of Granada on behalf of ISA President, Fernando Aguerre, by the Mayor of Granada, Julia Mena. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
ISA Vice President Alan Atkins being presented “El Gueguense,” a gift that represents theater during Nicaragua’s colonial times on behalf of ISA President, Fernando Aguerre, by the Mayor of Diriamba, Fernando Baltodano. Photo: ISA/Rommel Gonzales
Competition starts on Sunday with The Morning Show at 7:40am (local time), featuring the host Beau Hodge and a panel of guests, who will be introducing the event, followed by:
12 heats of Men’s SUP Surfing Qualifying 1
5 heats of Women’s SUP Surfing Qualifying 1
6 heats of Men’s SUP Surfing Qualifying 2
3 heats of Women’s SUP Surfing Qualifying 2
Watch the live webcast on – http://isawsuppc.com/live/
2014 ISA WORLD SUP AND PADDLEBOARD CHAMPIONSHIP BEGINS SATURDAY
2nd May 2014
Nicaragua’s National Team Was Joined By The ISA President, Minister Of Tourism, Local Organizers, And The Country’s Main Media Outlets At The Official Press Conference
ISA President Fernando Aguerre (on screen) was joined by Nicaragua’s Minister of Tourism Mayra Salinas (fourth from right), Local Event Organizer Lucy Valenti (third from left), Mayor of Granada Julia Mena (fourth from left), Mayor of Diriamba (third from right), Nicaragua Team Manager Ronaldo Urroz (far right), Nicaragua Team Members Norwin Estrella and Ana Urroz (far left) and ISA Gold Medalist Casper Steinfath (second from right) at the official press conference. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
The 2014 ISA World Standup Paddle (SUP) and Paddleboard Championship (WSUPPC) begins Saturday with the Opening Ceremony featuring the Parade of Nations and Sands of the World Ceremony. All 28 National Teams and over 250 Athletes and Team Officials will gather and parade down the streets of the historic, colonial city of Granada in front of thousands of local spectators.
During the Opening Ceremony, each participating nation comes to the stage waving their national flag while pouring sand from their local beach into a glass container symbolizing the peaceful gathering of nations through the love of surfing.
Friday, the official press conference of the ISA WSUPPC took place in the official host city, Granada, where over 50 representatives of Nicaragua’s leading TV and print media outlets were present. In attendance were ISA President Fernando Aguerre, Ministry of Tourism Mayra Salinas, Local Event Organizer Lucy Valenti, Mayor of Granada Julia Mena, Mayor of Diriamba Fernando Baltodano, Nicaragua Team Manager Ronaldo Urroz, Nicaragua National Team Members Norwin Estrella and Ana Urroz, and 2013 ISA WSUPPC Gold Medalist Casper Steinfath from Denmark.
The first ever Nicaraguan SUP and Paddleboard Team was present at the Official Press Conference of the 2014 ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship. Photo: ISA/Michael Tweddle
“It is with great happiness that I welcome the first Nicaraguan National Team in the history of the ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship; it’s a real honor. I want all of the team members and coaches to realize that you are making sport history in Nicaragua,” noted ISA President Fernando Aguerre. “Nicaragua is a pioneer because it’s the first time that an ISA World Championship will be held at both the ocean and lake. I want to thank everyone for their support and wish the best of success to all of the athletes.”
“For Nicaragua, it brings great satisfaction, pride, and happiness to welcome more than 220 athletes from 28 countries,” remarked Executive President of INTUR (Ministry of Tourism) Mayra Salinas. “For us, it’s an extraordinary opportunity, not only for Tourism promotion of the country at an international level, but also to showcase the incredibly rich natural resources we have in all of our beaches.”
“I would like to invite the whole country of Nicaragua to enjoy a World Championship of amazing quality. Since we started hosting ISA World Championships three years ago, it has positioned Nicaragua as a world-wide leader in surf,” said Local Organizer Lucy Valenti.
The live webcast of the Parade of Nations and the Opening Ceremony will begin at 3:30pm, local time and can be viewed onhttp://isawsuppc.com/live/.
Here is the schedule:
Saturday, 3:30pm Granada, Nicaragua
Saturday, 2:30pm West Coast USA
Saturday, 11:30pm Western Europe
Sunday, 7:30am Sydney, Australia
