Aritz Aranburu confirmed his status as favourite and won the Rip Curl Santa Marina Challenge, an invitational championship held today in two-metre long and perfect waves breaking on the legendary Cantabria break.

The podium was completed by Frenchman Vincent Duvignac and locals Pablo and Gonzalo Gutiérrez.

Meanwhile, Aranburu also won the award for the best wave and Cantabrian Michel Velasco won the award for the best local surfer.

“Thanks to the locals for sharing your wave and congratulations to the organization for this 1st edition, especially to you Pablo Gutierrez, for being the best ambassador. You made it difficult for us in the final,” wrote Aritz on his Instagram about his victory.

Meanwhile, third-placed Pablo Gutierrez, who was also the organizer, referred to by Aranburu, said: “I am delighted with the result of this first event. Being able to bring all these friends together in a championship on my favorite wave is incredible. I am already thinking about a second edition!” he said at the end of the day. “We had waves, good weather and a good crowd. I hope everyone had as much fun as I did!”

1.- Aritz Aranburu (EUK)
2.- Vincent Duvignac (FRA)
3.- Pablo Gutierrez (CNT)
4.- Gonzalo Gutierrez (CNT)
Fifth and seventh: Dani García, Michel Velasco, Eneko Acero and Indar Unanue.