The opening day of the finale weekend of the Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series delivered one of the most dramatic mornings of racing all season, as the Sunset 10,000 qualifiers were run in relentless, chaotic conditions.
Non-stop rain, building swell and strong winds created a testing arena but one perfectly suited to showcasing the raw skill, composure and adaptability of the world’s best surf sports athletes. Due to the extreme weather, only the men’s and women’s Iron races were completed, with all remaining finals postponed and set to be run tomorrow morning.
Shaw and Partners World Ocean series Sunset 10,000 Ironwoman
The women’s Iron race unfolded like a game of chess in the ocean. Naomi Scott controlled the race for the majority of the break, leading confidently and making smart decisions in brutal conditions. Heartbreak struck in the closing moments when she unfortunately lost her board, instantly opening the door for her rivals.
Sensing the opportunity, Lana Rogers and Hannah Sculley pounced, launching into a fierce sprint to the line to claim the win. Hannah Sculley once again showing the World how good she is in these conditions. The result carries major implications for Lana Rogers the overall Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series Ironwoman title.
Shaw and Partners World Ocean series Sunset 10,000 Ironman
The men’s race mirrored the intensity and tactical nature of the women’s event. With skill at an absolute premium, Ethan Callaghan came agonisingly close to a flawless performance, producing an exceptional swim leg and riding a powerful body-surfing wave all the way through the break.
However, experience proved decisive in the final stages. Matt Bevilacqua showcased his elite race IQ and composure, expertly negotiating the tricky Northcliffe break in the closing leg to surge clear and take the win crossing the line alongside his son Beau in a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the sport.
A Statement to the World
Despite the severe conditions, the opening day of the Sunset 10,000 provided an unforgettable platform for athletes to demonstrate their resilience, technical ability and class under pressure. It was surf sports at its rawest and its best.
With all remaining finals still to come, the stage is set for a massive conclusion to the season.
Stay tuned for more coverage from the final weekend of the Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series, including the Sunset 10,000 and the Shannon Eckstein Ironman Classic.
