Shark Survivor Wins Hawaii Race in Record Time

Australian paddleboarder Charlie Verco has achieved his fourth world championship title in Hawaii, completing the 52km Molokai to Oahu Paddleboard race in a record-breaking 4 hours, 18 minutes, and 3 seconds. This incredible feat surpasses the previous record set in 2019 by three minutes, marking a culmination of Verco's years of dominance in the event.

Verco's victory comes just weeks after he heroically rescued Leah Stewart, a Sydney woman who was attacked by a great white shark. While training off Coogee Beach in June, the 25-year-old surf life saver heard Stewart's cries for help. He immediately paddled to her, assisting her towards shore as she lost consciousness. Stewart, who survived the attack and underwent multiple surgeries including an arm amputation, was aided by Verco as he kept her afloat while paddling.

The Molokai race, considered the ultimate test in open-water paddling, saw Verco finish nearly 50 minutes ahead of his nearest competitor in the unlimited paddleboard class. Verco reflected on his strategy, emphasizing a more relaxed approach this year compared to his previous attempt at the record, which ultimately led to his success.