Australian paddleboarder Charlie Verco has made headlines for both a heroic rescue and a record-breaking world title. Just weeks after saving a woman from a great white shark off Coogee Beach, Verco won his fourth world championship in the Molokai to Oahu Paddleboard race in Hawaii, setting a new course record of 4 hours, 18 minutes and 3 seconds.
Record-Breaking Performance in Hawaii
The 25-year-old crossed the 52km channel in stunning time, eclipsing the previous mark set by fellow Australian Matt Bevilacqua in 2019 by three minutes. Verco finished nearly 50 minutes ahead of second place in the “unlimited” paddleboard class, cementing his dominance in the sport.
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| Race | Year | Winner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Molokai to Oahu | 2025 | Charlie Verco | 4h 18m 3s |
| Molokai to Oahu | 2019 | Matt Bevilacqua | 4h 21m 3s |
A Heroic Rescue at Coogee Beach
In June, during a training session, Verco heard cries for help from Leah Stewart, a 34-year-old teacher who had been bitten by a 3.5-metre great white shark. Verco, a trained surf life saver, paddled her to shore as she lost consciousness. Stewart later underwent five surgeries, including an arm amputation, but survived thanks to his quick actions.
“The shark surfaced, I saw its dorsal fin – it was big,” Verco recalled. “I had to try and keep hold of her with one hand and keep paddling towards shore with the other.”
Key Takeaways from Charlie Verco's Story
- World champion paddleboarder sets new course record in Molokai race
- Rescued a shark attack victim weeks before the championship
- Demonstrated exceptional courage and athleticism
- Race is considered the ultimate test in open-water paddling
The Molokai Race: The Ultimate Paddleboarding Challenge
The 27th running of the Molokai race, known as the world championships of paddleboarding, is widely considered the toughest open-water test. Verco’s record time marks the culmination of years of dominance. “It’s always a challenge getting across the channel and each year it dishes up something different,” he said after the win.
FAQ
What is the Molokai to Oahu paddleboard race?
The Molokai to Oahu paddleboard race is a grueling 52km open-water event held annually in Hawaii, considered the world championship of paddleboarding.
How did Charlie Verco rescue the shark attack victim?
Verco used his paddleboard to reach Leah Stewart after she was bitten by a great white shark, keeping her on the board with one hand while paddling to shore with the other.
What record did Charlie Verco break in the Molokai race?
Verco broke the course record by finishing in 4 hours, 18 minutes and 3 seconds, beating the previous record by three minutes.
Who is the Australian paddleboarder who won the world title after a shark rescue?
Charlie Verco, a 25-year-old Australian paddleboarder and surf life saver, won his fourth world championship just weeks after rescuing a shark attack victim.
Charlie Verco’s story inspires athletes and everyday people alike, showing that true champions rise both in competition and in moments of crisis. His dual achievements in rescue and record-breaking will be remembered for years to come.
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