o small task. Earle paddled the Atlantic Ocean for almost five hours, pushing through with serious grit. As he crossed the finish line, his friends from Strand Nippers Life Saving Club were waiting on the beach to cheer him on. Earle's love for water doesn't stop there - he's also into water polo, swims with Curro Aquatics, and catches waves with Strand Nippers on weekends. Seven days a week, this kid's making waves. What he’s done is not just impressive – it’s inspiring. It’s a reminder of what’s possible with dedication, a good support system, and a whole lot of heart. And to top it all off, Earle didn't waste any time celebrating - he headed straight into the waves for a boogie boarding session with his friends as soon as he crossed the finish line.17:T5e2,

In an extraordinary display of determination and skill, 12-year-old Earle van der Watt (Junior) from the Strand Nippers Life Saving Club conquered an amazing challenge.

On Sunday April 6, Earle completed the virtual Molokai2Oahu paddleboard challenge, paddling 26km from Rooi Els to Strand on his trusty 8ft Malibu board.

With the support of Alpha Lifesaving team nearby for safety and support, Earle paddled solo the entire way and became the youngest person in the world to complete this challenge.

The actual Molokai2Oahu race, held annually in Hawaii, spans 52km between the islands of Molokai and Oahu, earning it the nickname "Channel of Bones." But even the virtual version is no small task.

Earle paddled the Atlantic Ocean for almost five hours, pushing through with serious grit. As he crossed the finish line, his friends from Strand Nippers Life Saving Club were waiting on the beach to cheer him on.

Earle's love for water doesn't stop there - he's also into water polo, swims with Curro Aquatics, and catches waves with Strand Nippers on weekends. Seven days a week, this kid's making waves.

What he’s done is not just impressive – it’s inspiring. It’s a reminder of what’s possible with dedication, a