Laurence Carey has been crowned champion at the 2016 New Zealand Slalom Windsurfing Nationals, held at Naval Point, Canterbury.
The gods of the wind only allowed two days of racing, but it was enough to decide the season winners. And with temperatures as high as 31°C (87.8°F), windsurfers were eager to get to the water and cool off.
The Open Men's fleet had a high level of competition. Kiwi sailor Peter John travelled from Maui, Hawaii, to try and claim the national title from reigning champion Laurence Carey.
However, the 21-year-old sailor from Auckland fought with everything he had. Carey won all races and took the Slalom title home. Laurence is preparing himself for an intense season at the highest level. He will be the first Kiwi in over ten years to represent his country on the PWA World Tour.
"I had some awesome races and battles with Jack and Alex Hart throughout the event. One of the coolest races I remember was when Peter John had a blistering start, and I followed in second to the first mark," explained Laurence Carey.
"PJ, however, went wide on the second mark leaving a gap inside where I squeezed in and came out flying. Unfortunately for PJ, I took all his wind allowing Jack to go below him. Jack then held second for the remainder of the race. It goes to show anything can happen in a race!"
The Youth fleet has also had some serious competition. Tauranga sailor Max Van der Valem has shown off his finesse in the corners, making swift maneuvers and overtaking when necessary. He took the title in his division.
On the Women's category, the local girls showed off their skills, and the defending champion Annie Crombie retained her title. Bernard Carey, the father of Laurence, won the Silver fleet.
2016 New Zealand Slalom Windsurfing Nationals | Results
Men
1. Laurence Carey
2. Jack Holliday
3. Alex Hart
Women
1. Annie Crombie
Youth Boys
1. Max van der Zalm
2. Max Meffen
3. James Nind
Youth Girls
1. Fenella Bowater
2. Meg Rennie
Silver Fleet
1. Bernard Carey
2. Gregor Bowater
3. Nigel Robinson