- WSL
- WSL
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Carissa Moore clinches her third World Title at the Target Maui Pro.

Three-time world surfing champion and Honolulu native Carissa Moore (HAW) was honored at Ala Moana Beach Park Monday by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell, who proclaimed January 4 as Carissa Moore Day in Hawaii.

Moore won her third World Title at the Target Maui Pro in December, capping off a stellar year. But the Oahu native's achievement is only the latest in a prominent career that started early. Moore, now 23, won her first World Title in 2011 at age 18, becoming the youngest world champion in history. When she was 11, she became the youngest surfer to ever compete in the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.

Caldwell, the mayor, stood before a gathering of Moore's family, friends and local media to present her with a plumeria lei. He spoke about the leadership, grace and aloha that Moore exudes as both a champion and a role model.

Moore's Barrel Mojo
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Just days after winning her third Title in Maui, Moore dominated the Women's Pipe Invitational with performances like this.

"Carissa walks in the footsteps of folks like Rell Sunn and Duke Kahanamoku, and gives back to the community through her style of leadership," said Caldwell. "They live in our hearts through love and aloha and I believe Carissa carries that same spirit."

Jodi Wilmott, WSL Hawaii General Manager, also congratulated Moore and spoke of the many accomplishments that the young surfer has achieved.

"I've had the pleasure of seeing a phenomenon in the making," Wilmott said. "It's amazing to see someone so young realize their destiny."

Moore leads the 2016 WSL Samsung Galaxy Women's Championship Tour with an unprecedented four additional Hawaii athletes competing on tour as well -- Tatiana Weston-Webb (Kauai), Malia Manuel (Kauai), Coco Ho (Oahu) and Alessa Quizon (Oahu).

When asked how she would like everyone to spend January 4, Moore responded, "Do something that makes your heart and soul happy." For herself, the surfer said she will spend the day with family and in the ocean.

"I hope to continue to make Hawaii proud and share my aloha."

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