Arutkin wins Overall 2026 Infinity Carolina Pro-Am, Latham Shines!
The 2026 Infinity Carolina Pro-Am concluded April 24–26 with Arthur Arutkin claiming the prestigious Waterman’s Overall Award after an impressive all-around performance in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. Arutkin secured victories in the Men’s Pro Longboard and SUP Surf Race divisions, while also finishing third in the Men’s Open division. Widely regarded as one of the world’s top SUP surfers, racers, and windsurfers, the French standout demonstrated his versatility throughout the event.
The Carolina Pro-Am Newkirk Waterman’s Award recognizes the best overall competitor each year. Previous winners include Jarrod Covington (2014), Kieran Grant (2015), Bullet Obra (2016), Martin Letourneur (2017 and 2018), Izzi Gomez (2019), Bernd Roediger (2021), Candice Appleby (2022), Colin McPhillips (2023), and Dave Boehne (2024).
Jason Latham also delivered a standout performance, winning the Men’s Pro division and finishing third in Men’s Longboard competition. In the Women’s Pro divisions, Mel Wygal dominated by winning both the Open Pro and Longboard titles.
The Infinity Carolina Pro-Am remains the world’s longest-running SUP surf contest, featuring professional and amateur divisions as well as a “First Comp” division designed for first-time competitors. The event also included a SUP surf race that tested athletes’ racing and surf skills in challenging but manageable conditions. Arutkin capped off his weekend by winning the SUP surf race in 18 mph winds and three-foot surf. Local standout Campbell Carter finished second, just 50 seconds behind the champion.
We want to thank all of our sponsors, Infinity Surf Co., Prince Izant, South End Surf Shop, Smith Dentistry, One Presidential Mortgage, Hoggard Dentistry, Capital Vacations, Jolynn Swimsuits, Shelta Hats, Vito’s Pizza, Partners Jason Colclough Real Estate, Newkirk Valuation Services, and the World Paddle Association, while also recognizing the Fonvielle Family, the Brandenburg Foundation and Laura Glantz Photography for their support.
The event will return to Wrightsville Beach on April 23–25, 2027.