Tupu King could compete in the U23 section but decided to test himself in the premier men's division this year.
Despite being one of the top paddlers, he knows he'll have to be at the top of his game to beat the competition.
The nationals is a family affair for the Kings, Tupu's parents and sisters are all competing in the W1s today and Tupu says their support has been the backbone of his success.
2013 was a big year for Tupu, he competed at the Tahiti Aito then qualified for the Tahiti Super Aito where only the top 120 in the world race.
If he's able to get his hands on gold, he might be in for another stellar year.