Can World Wave champions achieve exciting ‘Three-Peats’?
by International Windsurfing Tour 22 Oct 01:47 PDT
21 October – 1 November 2024
Aloha Classic Hotel Playa Sur El Medano Tenerife Grand Final © Fish Bowl Diaries
As the Playa Surf CBbC Hotel Aloha Classic Grand Final in Hawaii approaches, attention turns to the 2022 and 2023 World Windsurfing Wave Champions, Sarah-Quita Offringa (Aruba) and Marcilio Browne (Brazil). Both competitors are preparing for an exhilarating contest in their pursuit of a third consecutive world championship.
The stakes are high for Offringa, who starts the event ranked third. After missing an important early competition, she regained her form in the European leg with two wins this season. However, she must secure a strong finish ahead of the current leader, Lina Erpenstein (Germany), to achieve her third consecutive championship. As she anticipates tough competition, Offringa expresses her determination, saying,
“I’m extremely motivated to win. Waves represent my biggest challenge, and I am very driven to improve in that discipline.”
With promising wave conditions expected, potentially benefiting local competitors like 2023 world wave runner-up Sarah Hauser (New Caledonia), Offringa appears calm.
“Hawaii always pushes me beyond my comfort zone. It seems it will be significant, but that’s what I prepare for.”
On the other hand, Browne arrives in Maui with a narrow lead over the Pro Men’s lineup. Despite consistent performances throughout the year, he has not yet captured a first-place spot, causing his chase for a third title to be at risk. Currently, he is just 295 points ahead of former World Wave Champion, Spain’s Victor Fernandez, who has had an excellent year with multiple finals appearances. Adding to the pressure, Browne faces five other competitors capable of claiming the world title and must contend with a large field of 60 athletes, including local favorites like Kai Lenny, Bernd Roediger, and Morgan Noireaux. Reflecting on the level of competition, Browne states,
“Local athletes often shine here; they’re remarkable. Many competitors are performing exceptionally well right now. I find that exciting; I enjoy the energy of pushing each other.”
Amid this intense title battle, Browne will concentrate on his family to maintain composure.
“I keep my routine consistent. Spending time with family helps. I try not to dwell too much on competition. In my mind, I frame it as just another day to go sailing, and I keep my thoughts positive,” he comments.
The Aloha Classic Wave Grand Final event is scheduled from 21 October to 1 November at Hookipa Beach Park in Maui, Hawaii. The competition features a competitive field of 46 Pro Men and 13 Pro Women, along with Masters and Pro Junior categories.
The weather forecast suggests promising wind and swell during the 12-day event window, which should result in some spectacular performances in the Grand Final.
Watch live competition scores on LiveHeats. The full live broadcast will air on the IWT Wave Tour YouTube channel and the official IWT event page. Stay updated through social media channels, @IWT_Wave_Tour and @PWAworldtour. Spectators can also enjoy the event for free at Hookipa Beach Park.
