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Thousands participate, contribute to success of Duke’s OceanFest

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COURTESY BONNIE GROWER

Cherie the French bulldog, left, and Abbie the Australian Kelpie, took second and first places at the solo portion of the “Going to the Dogs Surfur Competition” as part of Duke’s OceanFest 2017, which concluded on Sunday.

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COURTESY RON JOHNSON

Dog surfers Cherie, Abbie and Bonobo took to the waves as part of Duke’s OceanFest 2017, which concluded on Sunday. Photo courtesy Ron Johnson.

Duke’s OceanFest 2017, which wrapped up on Sunday, brought in record numbers in attendance, according to organizers.

Over the nine days of events, more than an estimated 11,000 persons participated, watched or volunteered, said co-chair Chris Colgate.

“Duke’s OceanFest 2017 was the best ever,” said Colgate. “We had great weather and Duke (Kahanamoku,) as always, brought us surf throughout the 9 days. We had over 2,000 athletes participated in the different competitive events along with thousands of spectators who came to experience Waikiki’s Premier Ocean Sports Festival. The legacy of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku and his spirit of Aloha will be carried back home to countries around the world and his Aloha will be shared by millions.”

Male, female and canine surfers of all ages participated in the competitions, which kicked off with the Matson Menehune Surf Fest at Queen’s Beach in Waikiki last weekend, continued with longboard events, an ocean mile swim, tandem surf competition and more, and concluded with the Red Bull Party Wave on Sunday.

For the “Going to the Dogs Surfer” competition on Thursday, an Australian kelpie named Abbie Girl (owned by Michael Uy) won first place in solo surf, while Cherie the French bulldog (owned by Dan Kykolayko) took second and Bonobo the French bulldog (owned by Lauran Tassos) took third place. A tandem owner and dog surf competition also took place.

Results are available at dukesoceanfest.com/results.

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