JFK SWEEPS PADDLING DISTANCE TITLES

By Mya Owens

On a blazing Thursday afternoon, the highly anticipated GCKF Distance Championships took place at Lotte Beach. Under the relentless sun and with the pressure of a season-defining race, paddlers gave it their all for a chance to medal.

Sotteru and Sottera took on the grueling 4-mile course, battling both the distance and heat.

Their endurance and determination were shown as they battled through the long course. Meanwhile, Sottero Dinana powered through the 2-mile event, a race that demanded both speed and strategy.

Sotteru
Off the flag, the Islanders, Sharks, and Bulldogs quickly separated themselves from the rest, battling it out for the top spot. The Islanders grabbed the lead early and didn’t let go, staying ahead to finish in first place, with the Bulldogs staying close behind to take second.

Behind them, the Panthers and Sharks were battling it out for a spot on the podium. The Sharks held the lead for most of the race, but just before the final turn, the Panthers made their move, powering past the Sharks and finishing strong to take third.

JFK Boys
Jason Perez
Acho Kaipat
John Benavente
Troy Andrew
Napu Kaipat
Austin Augustin

Sottera
Right off the flag, it was a battle between the Sharks and Islanders for the top spot in the Sottera division. The Sharks stayed close behind the Islanders through the first and second turns, but the Islanders started to pull away halfway to the last turn. From there, they kept their lead strong, finishing in first.

The Sharks took second, while the Cougars edged out the Titans for third, securing a spot on the podium.

JFK Girls
Kailee Preuc
Ayesha Balicha
Zina Gui
Lorelei Strohmeyer
Peiliana Matanane
Dina Soriano

Sottero Dinana
In the mixed team division, the Bulldogs, Sharks, and Islanders were neck-and-neck going into the turn. The Bulldogs gained the edge before the turn and pulled ahead, followed by the Islanders and the Sharks.

After the turn, the result became clear as the teams spread out on the final stretch. The Bulldogs powered through for first place, the Islanders claimed second, and the Sharks secured third.

Okkodo Mixed
Vonny Teregeyo
Gabby Gogue
Manny Lomtong
Javen Frias
Renee Santos
Meraiyah Quinata

The last race of the 2025 High School Paddling season will take place at Matapang Beach on May 3rd, featuring the sprint races.