Trying conditions push Vaka Eiva paddlers

Top local female paddler Serena Hunter had a swell time taking the challenging weather in her stroke and eventually gunning it home in a time of 1.18.08 to take out 1st place in the open women 12km V1 category. Hunter and Louise Staunton of Australia – who paddled in the OC1 division - gave spectators a show as they, despite competing in different division went head to head until Staunton capsized on the turn leaving Hunter to overtake and revel in the harsh conditions as she blitzed it home for the win. The fun continues today for the up and coming paddling stars as they take over Muri lagoon for Mapu Vaka Eiva events starting at 7am.