Surf championships start this weekend

The highly anticipated Surf Life Saving Central Coast Branch Championships will get underway this weekend, February 8-9.

Members ranging from U8s to Masters will take to the sand and water over the next two weekends to showcase their skills, dedication, and competitive spirit across various surf sports events.

This Saturday, February 8 athletes from Central Coast clubs will gather at Ocean Beach Surf Life Saving Club to compete in the Opens and Boat Championships, with boards, skis, and boats ready for action.

Meanwhile, Masters competitors will head to Umina on Sunday, February 9 to compete in their respective age-group categories.

The following weekend – Saturday and Sunday, February 15 and 16 – will see two full days of competition for the youngest competitors at Avoca Beach Surf Life Saving Club, with U8s to U14s showcasing the traditions of surf lifesaving.

The weekend will kick off with a March Past Parade before athletes take to the sand and water for the pursuit of club glory.

On Sunday, February 16, the prestigious Junior Lifesaver of the Year award will be announced, recognising one U14 male and female for their outstanding achievements in surf lifesaving and contributions to the community.

The Junior Lifesaver of the Year Program focuses on recognising and rewarding young members, highlighting leadership, teamwork, and social awareness, while fostering a deeper connection to surf lifesaving.

Surf Life Saving Central Coast’s Branch Championships offer competitors the opportunity to compete in challenging surf sports events, making the event a significant milestone for both emerging talent and seasoned competitors.

CEO of the Central Coast branch Michael Hyslop said the Branch Championships were a highlight of the surf lifesaving season on the Central Coast.

“It’s inspiring to see such a broad range of competitors, from the youngest U8s to the experienced Masters, all coming together to showcase their skills and sportsmanship,” he said.

“We look forward to another year of thrilling competition and strong community spirit.”

The annual championships provide a platform for Surf Life Saving Central Coast members to demonstrate their dedication to the sport, while also fostering camaraderie across the region. Spectators are encouraged to attend and support their local athletes.