Booth Withdraws from MOLOKAI-2-OAHU Paddleboard World Championships 2018

By Lauren Barley

Michael Booth will not compete in the M2O Championship, withdrawing from this weekend’s prestigious Hawaiian race for family health reasons.

Whilst it was a tough decision for Booth to have to make, entered as a favourite contestant heading into the 32-mile race, known as the “Channel of Bones”, Michael said it is for the best he stays close to his family during a rather difficult time. 

“I have been travelling a lot this year, and when things involve my family, that will always take priority,” he said. 

After an admirable finish to the European Tour, Booth said he was looking forward to heading over to Hawaii and racing in the SUP component of the M20 for the first time. 

“Whilst it would be awesome to be over there competing with the best international paddlers and local Hawaiian’s, I can’t really complain – I’ve had a really great run over in Europe the last few months”.

Booths father recently had open-heart surgery and is now enduring on a long recovery. 

“Whilst I am naturally disappointed that I won’t be competing on the weekend, it just didn’t feel right to not be with my family during this time. 

“I wish everyone competing the best of luck and I can’t wait to watch the boys put on a good show. As for me, I’ll be back next year!”