The Merimbula Classic event in Australia was once more a big success and a huge celebration of wind and waves attracting Wavesailors, Kitesurfers and Stand Up Paddlesurfers from around the globe. With Jacko, Jake and Angie away racing at The Doctor, it was left to the “B Team” for the Merimbula Classic. Kai Bates was the ripping man over the weekend leading Team Fanatic as the main stay paddler in all the team events.

First leg was a 700 meter upwind paddle in the Merimbula river. Kieran O’Riordan nailed the first leg and John Engel then was able to catch up a little on the Naish team on the downwind leg to the beach. Unfortunately the3rd paddler, James Tibbett was smashed by a big set paddling out and this gave the yellow team a bit more time. After an awesome upwind paddle James Tibbett passed the batten to Kai Bates who powered home for a solid 2nd place.Team Fanatic also finished 2nd in the BOP event with a team consisting of John Engel, Kai Bates, Josh Fletcher and James Carew. Last but not least Kai was also taking out the Open SUP Award title – well done there!

Also John Engel is a happy man after taking out the Grand Masters SUP Award. An age win in the Downwinder and a second in the Reef to Bar and the BOP event with team Fanatic topped the weekend off. (Team Fanatic – Kieran O’Riordan, James Tibbett and Kai Bates). Congrats John!

Another highlight was to have Fanatic shaper Sebastian Wenzel there. Seb was supporting the Fanatic Team at the event site but also used the opportunity to sneak in some wave sessions and test some boards!Big Thxs to our Team Fanatic Australia for doing a great job there promoting the brand!