HONOLULU – South African surfski paddlers hit the headlines in Hawaii at the weekend when Hayley Nixon won the women's race at the annual Maui Jim Molokai Challenge.
Hank McGregor and Jasper Mocké raced onto the men's podium after claiming second and third positions.
Nixon (Shaw and Partner/Euro Steel/Carbonology), racing in her first ever start at the 53-kilometre crossing of the fabled Channel of Bones, broke the women's course record in the process, and said she was elated at the achievement.
Nixon, the reigning world women's surfski champion, finished two minutes ahead of the classy Kiwi Rachel Clarke, with Australian Jordan Mercer another two minutes further back.
McGregor (Fenn/Euro Steel) was locked in a fierce duel with Australian star Corey Hill, which he lost by 30 seconds, with fellow South African Mocké (Euro Steel/Epic Kayaks) taking the last spot on the podium.
So proud of our Champions!!!! Molokai 2018! Ladies winner @HaylesZN Men 2nd @Hank_McGregor3rd @JasperMocke pic.twitter.com/wQ4CBOH0DT
— Euro Steel Sport (@EuroSteelSport) May 28, 2018
Men's results:
1 Corey Hill (Aus) 3:15:09
2 Hank McGregor (RSA) 3:15:39
3 Jasper Mocké (RSA) 3:17:03
Women's results:
1 Hayley Nixon (RSA) 3:52:02
2 Rachel Clarke (NZL) 3:53:03
3 Jordan Mercer (AUS) 3:55:37