Miles from shore: racing the open line

On Sunday, July 20th, 2025, it was time for the legendary crossing: Molokaʻi to Oʻahu. Over a hundred competitors gathered on the remote shores of Molokaʻi to take on the Kaiwi Channel. This is one of the most iconic and demanding downwind foil races in the world. The M2O Foil is more a race, it is a rite of passage for those who dare to dance with wind and ocean over 32 miles of open Pacific.

The channel is notorious for its ever-changing conditions: shifting wind lines, swell angles, current drag, and deep ocean pressure that can break even the most seasoned riders. Competitors must read the sea like a living map: choosing their line, trusting their gear, and pushing through fatigue, isolation and the relentless pull of the elements.

Divided into waves by discipline, SUP foil and wing foil, racers launched into a textured sea under strong tradewinds. From the moment the horn sounded, it was a game of glide, connection, and control. No land in sight. Just wind. Just water. Just that deep, endless blue.

Among the standout performances was our North International Team Rider Marley Franco, who claimed first place in the Wing Foil division! Marley crossed the channel in a spectacular 1:47:44, leaving the whole Wing Foil fleet behind him. A powerful statement in a field stacked with elite veterans and rising stars like Bobo (Anderson) Gallagher and Cash Berzolla.

The 2025 M2O Foil once again proved why this crossing holds so much weight. It’s not just about speed. It’s about answering the call. Facing the unknown. And finding freedom, somewhere between the islands, and within yourself.

Watch our video about this year's M2O now.