Gisborne athletes get special mention

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand has hailed the recent national championships in Christchurch as “incredibly successful” and Gisborne athletes have been singled out in the event summary for their performances.

Lewis McClintock, SLSNZ national sport manager said the event was highly anticipated and did not disappoint.

“It proved a huge success on every level, with Christchurch turning on the sun and swell across the four days, ensuring competitors had to show their absolute best in terms of endurance and surf skills,” McClintock said.

“A huge thank you to all the clubs, competitors, officials and volunteers who took part. Without them, we would not have been able to run the event or make it the success it proved to be.”

Dawson Building Midway finished third on overall points and Kaiaponi Farms Waikanae fourth out of 44 competing clubs.

“As usual, there were many outstanding performances throughout the event,” McClintock said.

“Waikanae's Oska Smith proved to be the king of the sand, taking home four golds across the under-19 and open beach sprint and beach flags while also picking up two silvers in the under-19 and open beach sprint relays.

“In the age groups, Waikanae's Lachie Falloon proved his ability across multiple disciplines, picking up four gold and three silver medals in the under-19 grade.

“In 2024, the TSB New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championships will make a return to Mount Maunganui.”