Baxter and Anderson Win Long Distance in Fiji
- Written by Morgan Becker
- Published in News
- Comments::DISQUS_COMMENTS
Elite paddlers from around the world came to Namotu, Fiji this past weekend to participate in the first stop on the 2012 Stand Up World Series.
From L to R: Connor Baxter (1st), Kai Lenny (2nd), Jeremy Stephenson (3rd) and Annabel Anderson (1st)
Read more about the Stand Up World Tour here
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NAMOTU, Fiji - 18 year old Connor Baxter put on a legendary performance here in Fiji to win the epic long distance from Natadola Beach to Namotu Island ahead of a stellar fleet of athletes. Taking an early lead out of the gate, Connor navigated his way successfuly down the 22 mile course to win the first leg of the first stop on the 2012 Stand Up World Series.
"The course was long and hard, but definitely worth it. Super stoked on the win and thank you to Starboard for their support and Namotu Island for their incredible welcome," said Baxter.
Long Distance Results
3:18:45 - Connor Baxter (HI)
3:26:16 - Kai Lenny (HI)
3:29:55 - Jeremy Stephenson (NZ)
3:31:16 - Jake Jensen (AUS)
3:32:13 - Noa Ginella (HI)
3:36:05 - Slater Trout (US)
3:44:46 - Andy Davies (AUS)
3:45:18 - Zane Schweitzer (HI)
3:45:19 - Greg Barfoot (NZ)
3:59:22 - Annabel Anderson (NZ)
4:13:08 - Shane Murrell (NZ)
4:43:28 - T.J Gulizia (US)
2 x Stand Up Paddlesurfing World Champion Kai Lenny once again proves that his expertise is not limited to surfing, with a phenomenal performance in the challenging 22 mile race. Chasing fellow Mauian Connor from the outset, Kai solidified his second place, but could not catch Baxter.
"That was the longest paddle that I have ever done in my life - it was gruelling but a great experience and I am stoked for Connor, he is such an amazing paddler and reads the ocean so well," said Lenny.
Annabel Anderson finished in a phenomenal 10th place overall and 1st and only woman in an incredibly fast time. Annabel was excited to represent the women here in Fiji, and added to Kai and Connor's comments on the extreme nature of the race that challenged both physical and mental limits of the athletes. What a great performance from this leading female athlete from New Zealand.
Congratulations to all the paddlers for an incredible race that has been a great first step for the Stand Up World Series in a race that was verging on an endurance race of the likes of the Moloka'i to Oahu, but with all paddlers racing on a 12'6.
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Morgan Becker
After spending the first part of her life in Minnesota, Morgan traded in her snow boots for sandals and moved to sunny California. After graduating with a degree in Communication from The University of Southern California, she eventually made her way down south to San Diego and is taking advantage of the living by the best beaches and burritos California has to offer. If it’s sunny, you can find her at the beach relaxing, or exploring the calm water in the bay via paddleboards and kayaks.
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