This is from Rodney Kilborn handsomebugga
The Maui Jim Triple Crown of Stand-Up Paddle is the first contest of its kind in the rapidly evolving stand-up paddle community. It entails a series of three races, with the Elite division accumulating points towards claiming a perpetual Koa trophy along with pride and bragging rights. The purpose of this style contest is to separate the “Sunday Paddlers” from the extreme challengers. In every sport there are the elite few who push the envelope, challenge themselves, and pave the way for others to follow. The Maui Jim Triple Crown of Stand-Up Paddle is the first opportunity for such paddlers to showcase their skills through three different courses of varying difficulty. Good luck to all participants. May your boards fly on the water and your spirits enjoy the ride.
The first race, the Handsome Bugga Poi Bowl, took place this past Sunday, July 3rd. The 3-star course (9 to 14 miles) was a 9.54 mile downwind paddle from Maliko Gulch to Kahului Harbor, Maui. A show of nearly 60 competitors with light to moderate winds left the participants feeling excited and geared up to give it their all. Connor Baxter, the rising star of Stand-up Paddle was the first place elite finisher with a time 1:10:03. His win earned him 1000 points toward the Triple Crown. Livio Menelau, a staple paddler here in Hawaii took second with a time of 1:11:22. His finish earned him 860 points. Third place went to Mark Raaphorst with a time of 1:13:53 and 730 points. In the women's division Andrea Moller-Bouwens took first with a time of 1:21:03 earning her 1000 points. Exactly one minute late Talia Gangini crossed the finish line bagging 860 points. Third went to Devin Blish finishing at 1:25:49 with 730 points. All top finishers went home that day with a killer glass trophy and not to mention a chunk of cash. The first leg wrapped up with a celebration at the Hawaiian Canoe Club hale including music, good food, and of course: an awards ceremony.
Next up is the second leg of the Maui Jim Triple Crown Stand-up Paddle; a grueling 21-mile paddle from Maliko Gulch to Honolua Bay. This five-star course will earn the first place finisher 10,000 points! It is rumored to be the hardest leg of the race due to its unfamiliarity, refracting waves, and unchartered waters for many. Who will come out on top this time? Can Connor keep his position? Will Livio's course experience push him ahead? Stay tuned for our next piece chronicling this race, and glimpse of the last course to come. Until then, Aloha and A Hui Hou!
