Howard Salkow

Senior Journalist

PORT Douglas outrigger paddler Monique Stevens faces the ultimate test of her 12-year career when she competes for the World Marathon Outrigger title in Tahiti on June 27.

In this team event of six competitors, she will be competing with fellow National title holders who are from various parts of Queensland, including the Gold Coast, Townsville, Brisbane and McKay.

“This is the first time I have represented Australia and I am looking forward to what will be a great challenge,” said Stevens before she headed off on a 12 km training paddle.

The Tahiti event is over 27km and will involve just over two hours of paddling.

There are numerous events in the IVF Va’a World Distance Championships from June 25-30 with more 3200 athletes from 25 countries.