LIHU‘E — There was a heavy turnout for the first of four Kaua‘i Bodyboarding Association events that are scheduled for this season, Saturday at Kealia Beach. The all-day event began early in the morning and participants not only competed in
LIHU‘E — There was a heavy turnout for the first of four Kaua‘i Bodyboarding Association events that are scheduled for this season, Saturday at Kealia Beach.
The all-day event began early in the morning and participants not only competed in the water, but were well-fed with 30 pounds of turkey and all the fixins.
Ab Balmores came away with first place in the Open Men division, shaking up the rankings among some top competitors.
Second place went to Sammy Morretino, who won the Jr. Men’s Amateur championship at the United States Bodyboarding Association SCION Jenks Pro/Am in New Jersey, Sept. 2-6.
Third place in the final went to Gino Marchino, while Trevor J. Singer came in fourth.
Coming in equal fifth were Luka Lo‘i, Alex Gunnar, Jordan Garcia and Kenui Topp. Tying for sixth were Anthony Irek, Pohaku Kekaualua, Kawika Christian, Nick Wehrly, Iona Lo‘i, Makana Keaweamahi and Donovan Cameron-Ray.
The Drop Knee title went to Mark Silva, with Denis Jose coming in second place.
Morretino had another high finish, this time coming in third with Gunnar improving to fourth place.
Tying for fifth was the trio of Wehrly, Rusty Akeo and Luka Lo‘i.
Heavy winds early in the morning rendered the big tent unusable, so small soccer tents provided shade for all attendees without being blown mauka.
Free KBA membership was offered for the event, which brought out competitors who had been no-shows at previous contests. The decision was made because of the economy, as well as non-profit plans for the association.
The organization states that it has now “entered the realm of a newly formed non-profit status pending, grant-eligible, YMCA insured entity.”
“Our track record will see us be able to mobilize our talented Kaua‘i bodyboarders to new heights, already proven with Matt (Holzman) and Sammy (Morretino)’s travels to New Jersey under the USBA umbrella and sponsorship of Science equipment and Mike Stewart, as well as other industry champions of the pro tour circuit, Kaua‘i Hubbard brothers, both current world champions,” said event organizer Pohaku Kekaualua in an e-mail.
Kekaualua also said that the organization is exploring the possibility of offering educational scholarships and possible travel support alongside sponsor donations.
The morning began with Pastor Wehryl offering a blessing for the day, as well as for Andy Irons and his ohana.
The next event is scheduled for Jan. 15 at First Halves in Kekaha.
