Surfers Test Out Clean Conditions at Piha

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
15 March, 2015

Surfers Test Out Clean Conditions at Piha for the Ultimate Waterman Ahead of Cyclone Pam Hit

The international field of surfers contesting the Ultimate Waterman sampled Auckland’s West Coast today with an exhibition event at Piha Beach.

The leading edge of Cyclone Pam made for clean conditions with offshore winds and a 1.5m swell. Athletes enjoyed switching out boards from their large quiver of equipment, testing set ups and engaging with the surf community.

After a warm-up surf in the morning the field was completed with the arrival of Kala Alexander (HAW) who was delayed in Hawaii.

The surfers completed a signing session for all of those in attendance before hitting the water on various crafts.

The day was perfect to wash away the aches and pains from the first discipline – the 17km waka ama race which was held yesterday (Saturday).

The surf session also acted as a great warm-up for what is shaping up to be an historical swell on the East Coast. The athletes will mobilise before dawn on Monday chasing the best swell and winds that Cyclone Pam has to offer.

The approaching cyclone is requiring increasing attention from the event weather forecasters as they analysis the smallest changes in the path of what has already been a devastating cyclone for our Pacific neighbours.

The safety of the athletes is of paramount importance. Despite the athletes being world class, the intensity of Cyclone Pam is something that many New Zealanders will not have witnessed. And such conditions require considerable planning.

If conditions dictate, the second of the six disciplines will be contested on Monday as the athletes attempt to claw back the lead of Danny Ching (USA) who won the first event.

ends

Please see below for overall points after one of six disciplines:

1. Danny Ching (USA), 2,000*
2. Georges Cronsteadt (TAH), 1,440*
3. Connor Baxter (HAW), 730
4. Kai Lenny (HAW), 670
5. Daniel Kereopa (NZL), 583
6. Mark Visser (AUS), 555
7. Manoa Drollet (TAH), 528
8. Kala Alexander (HAW), 0
*Denotes double whammy division completed

ends

© Scoop Media