The 2025 Triple Crown of downwind racing kicked off with an exciting start at the Paddle Imua on July 13th, and F-One rider Lily Buden came out flying. The race, which runs from Maliko Gulch to Kanahā Beach, delivered ideal conditions with gusts reaching up to 35 mph. After weeks of dedicated training and strategy work, Lily ultimately took 1st place in the Women’s Wingfoil division and 3rd overall, beating out some major names in the downwind world (including the Wingfoil Surf Champion!).Here’s a closer look at how the day unfolded.
“I had been training weeks before the race trying to improve on my time as well as figuring out what the best line would be to make it to the finish. The forecast for the race was not what I was hoping for but the conditions turned out to be epic! It was blowing about 20 knots and gusting to about 30-35 mph. I knew that with the direction of the wind, I would have to take more of an inside line which I did. I had a great start which gave me much more confidence throughout the race knowing I was in the lead pack. Towards the beginning of the race i decided to take an inside line as I was making my way through Hookipa. As i started to get closer to Kanaha, the wind started to back off and I decided to take an outside line as i approached the finish line. Coming into the beach was a bit of a challenge since the wind had really decreased but I was still able to make a great time which was 20:24 minutes. I was super happy with my results taking 1st place in Women’s Wingfoil division and 3rd place overall!! I am super stoked that I was able to improve a lot compared to last years race! I am super excited for the next races which are M2M and M2O in the Triple Crown and hope to perform at my best!” -LB
In a celebratory Instagram post, Lily stated “I had an amazing day being a part of this years @paddleimua @discoverimua event that helps benefit children with special needs! I am very happy with my results getting 1st place in the Women’s Wingfoil division as well as placing 3rd overall!! Great way to start off the Triple Crown, 2 more races to go. Congratulations as well to @tati.grant and @anna.kala!! Thank you @paddleimua for a great day!!”