Oceans 18: Mt Maunganui lead after day 2

Mt Maunganui's Caleb Cobb, left, and Nathaniel Fitt from Red Beach head for the finish line. PHOTO/BEX CHARTERIS

The 2018 Under-14 New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championships have continued to be one of the most hotly contested events on the Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) calendar, with two clubs tied in equal first after the second day of the four-day carnival.

At the end of day two Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service and Lyall Bay Surf Life Saving Club share the top spot at Oceans 18 held in Orewa, north of Auckland.

Both teams battled for the lead throughout the day, but ended up tied for first place during the final few races of the day.

Mt Maunganui have enjoyed eight wins over the two days while Lyall Bay have taken six wins, including three in the team relay events.

Holding a steady third place with only 21 athletes was Whakatane Surf Life Saving Club who finished the day on 25 points, ahead of fourth placed Omanu on 19 points.

Rounding out the top five were Waikanae Surf Life Saving Club, who finished the second day with 14 points overall.

Oceans 18 event manager Scott Bicknell says "there was a fantastic atmosphere here all day".

"Everyone from the athletes, to supporters and officials are enjoying the event despite the challenging weather conditions. There is no doubt it has been a little bit tough for the athletes today but they've done exceptionally well and I think that's reflected in the close results.

"Plus the comraderie between the athletes has been really good to see. There is a lot of cheering going on during races and we all love seeing that. It creates a really amazing vibe and it's great to see them all supporting each other."

Oceans 18 continues todayfrom 8am at Orewa Beach with spectators welcome to attend for free.

Events for the athletes include the Diamond races, consisting of swim, board and beach sprint legs, along with a series of separate beach sprinting events.

Oceans 18 — Top 5 after Day 2
Mt Maunganui LS, 34, Lyall Bay SLSC, 34, Whakatane SLSC, 25, Omanu SLSC, 19, Waikanae SLSC, 14