UP down UP

The WSL (World Surf League) Corona Cero New Zealand Pro 2026 surfing championships for men and women, held at Manu Bay, Raglan finished a few days ago. Pre competition, my daughter Ruth and I had a lovely conversation with Carissa Moore, a Hawaiian competitor. She came across as an authentic and humble person and the eventual winner of the women’s championship.
On the first day of the scheduled 10 day event, I was watching the heats with Ruth, her husband Jake, their kids and some of their friends from Mount Maunganui - they sure know how to laugh and enjoy themselves! The happy crowd of thousands around us helped to set the scene for the rest of the day as the ‘Raglan vibe’ was appreciated in town and beach alike.
Reflecting on the whole event with Val, we noted that groms (young surfers) had plenty of opportunities to talk with and get autographs from many world famous surfers. Annie, a checkout operator from the local 4 Square Supermarket remarked to me that Gabriel Medina representing Brazil, was a regular customer in the store. “He was amazing. They were all amazing.” 
The waves may have been up and down over the 10 days, but superb weather and organisation, central government funding and local government (Waikato District Council) regulatory assistance, combined with the surfers and public mixing easily together, helped to ensure the success of this event. 
I heard yesterday that the surfers want to come back in 2027. No surprise. Always good to finish on an up. 

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