Norton and Smith dominate Forster event ahead of Molokai Challenge

Norton and Smith achieve double victories in Forster

Tom Norton and Jemma Smith both celebrated flawless performances at the recent Australian Ocean Racing Series event in Forster, each securing wins on both days of competition.

Over 150 athletes participated in the primary race, the 20-kilometer Shaw and Partners Forster Ocean Classic. This year's event, unlike previous demanding conditions, benefited from a gentle southerly breeze, described by participants as "unbelievable."

This set the stage for an exciting conclusion between Norton and Cory Hill. Hill led for 12km, but Norton, adopting an unusually wide line, fought back to the front. Norton executed his plan, taking a slight lead near the finish. Hill surged, catching the same wave, but Norton's strategic decision to exit the wave proved decisive as Hill lost control, allowing Tom to claim consecutive victories.

Norton stated his objective was to complete strong races and feel confident in his paddling, with the Molokai Challenge in four weeks as his main goal. He viewed the close win as a success, confirming his ability to compete with Hill over these distances. Oscar Jones finished three minutes behind, rounding out the top three.

Jemma Smith's dominant performance and Molokai focus

Jemma Smith, the reigning ICF World Champion, also delivered a dominant performance, securing impressive victories on both days of racing. In the Shaw and Partners Forster Ocean Classic, she finished a commanding four minutes ahead of Sascha Taurins and Emily Doyle.

Smith expressed satisfaction, noting she's resumed ocean ski training after the Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships to build endurance for Molokai. She is part of a significant group heading to Hawaii for the Molokai Challenge, which is a major priority despite recently concluding her sprint season. She acknowledged the race is daunting, being longer than any surfski race she's completed, but she's excited for...

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