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Nainoa David puts on a stellar performance in the Na Kama Kai U16 Challenge
This year’s Na Kama Kai Youth Challenge was one of the most exciting yet, as we saw an unprecented pool of young and fearless talent step up to do battle at Turtle Bay.
We had two age groups participate today, with U16 and U13 divisions. In the U16, the Tahitians took over with a mind blowing display of performance surfing, clearly showcasing that there is an exciting new wave of Tahitian talent coming to the fore, led by the Island Nation’s leading light on the Stand Up World Tour, Poenaiki Raioha.
Nainoa David (Naish) posted the single highest wave score of the day, with a 9 pt ride in what were without doubt the most challenging conditions of the day, showcasing his versality and ability to find the right waves and maximize every moment and securing the event win. Meanwhile, right behind him was Mauiki Raioha, who showed that the Raioha family talent is not limited to his brother Poenaiki!
In 3rd place, Jeffrey Spencer (Naish) put on a solid performance, representing the island of Maui in today’s battle and a big congratulations go out to all the incredible youth participants, who really are the future of this wonderful sport.
13 year old Keola Auwae stuns the crowds with a phenomenal victory in the U13
Perhaps the most astounding development from this year’s Na Kama Kai Challenge was not only the number of U16 athletes that stepped up to do battle, but the fact that there were more athletes that were 13 and under than anything else, with some as young as 8 years old!
With 2 heats followed by a Final for the U13 division, it was Keola Auwae from the west side that kept the Auwae family legacy alive with some of the most inspired surfing ever witnessed for someone so young. There is no doubt that this young talent will be a major star of the future and we are excited to watch his career develop.
In 2nd place, a Na Kama Kai regular, Dave Allen de Armas once again showcased skill and flair, making his presence felt and putting on a solid performance at this first Na Kama Kai battle of the year. Meanwhile in 3rd place, it was another Spencer making the podium, this time the younger, Finn, at just 11 years old showed experience way beyond his years, posting his first podium here on Oahu’s Fabled North Shore.