KEY POINTS:
Titahi Bay left the other five crews well behind in the final of the Piha surf lifesaving big wave classic at Piha.
The much anticipated clash in the final between the Wellington crew and national champions, Red Beach, did not eventuate when the Auckland crew were eliminated in the semifinal.
Red Beach, hammered by several big waves on the outward journey, fought back to be in contention for third place and a place in the final, but finished fourth.
The excellent surf conditions on Saturday made for spectacular action though several boats were damaged.
"We haven't had much surf in Wellington so far this season and to come top to Auckland and to get into the waves was awesome," said Titahi Bay's sweep, Paul McVicor.
