International Surfing Association Newsletter April 2006
International Surfing Association
April Newsletter2006
Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 3 April, 2006 :Below is the latest news from the international surfing community:-
1. ISA Events
QUIKSILVER ISA WORLD JUNIOR SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2006 The ISA, in conjunction with the Confederação Brasileira de Surf, will be presenting the Quiksilver ISA WJSC 2006 in Maresias, Brasil. The contest will be held from the 6th to the 14th of May.
ISA WORLD SURFING GAMES 2006 The ISA, in conjunction with the Surfing America, will present the 2006 ISA WSG in Surf City USA – Huntington Beach, California. The contest will be held from the 14th to the 22nd of October.
QUIKSILVER ISA WORLD JUNIOR SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2007 The ISA, in conjunction with the Federação Portuguesa de Surf (FPS), will present the 2007 ISA WJSC in Portugal. The contest schedule of events is yet to be determined.
2. ISA Calendar
YEAR EVENT LOCATION DATES 2006 Aloha Cup: South Africa, Namibia and Britain South Africa January 28 – 29, 2006 2006 PASG Peru January 15 – 23, 2006 2006 Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championships* Maresias, Brazil May 6 – 14, 2006 ISA World Surfing Games* Huntington Beach, CA USA October 14-22, 2006 2006 ISA Biennial General Meeting 2006 Huntington Beach, CA USA October 16, 2006 2006 ISA Annual General Meeting 2006 Huntington Beach, CA USA October 18, 2006 2006 ISA World Kneeboard Championships* Santa Cruz, CA USA January 7 – 14, 2007 *An ISA Sanctioned Event
3. National Governing Bodies news
ARGENTINA
PASSERI BEGINS TRAINING IN PANAMA The Argentine bichampion of surfing, Martín Passeri, left yesterday with his family to Panama, where he will begin a demanding training for “ Reef Classic Latin Crown ”. This important event will be the fifth event of the tour WINGS 2006 and it will have elected category of six stars, the location is that of Malibú beach in Gorgona. This new stage of the tour WINGS will develop from April 13 until April 15 and will distribute U$S 15.000,00 and 6000 points for the winner.
The integral athlete of the International Reef team comes to Panama with very good expectations, since he is second in the ranking to scarce difference of the leader Jean Carlo Schaffer of Venezuela. The Argentinian will tackle a hard training in Panamanian grounds along with the multiple Panamanian champion Gary Saavedra and the flaming Latin champion Ornella Pellizzari of Argentina. Regarding the above mentioned, Passeri proved to be much filled with enthusiasm of being able to train along with very professional athletes.
FAREWELL PADDLE OUT FOR BEN KING Surfing Australia pays tribute to Ben King. - Great Loss to surfing community in Byron Bay Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 17 March, 2006 : - - Surfing Australia wishes to pay its respects to Ben King and publicly acknowledge the outstanding role he has played in laying a solid foundation over the years for the Byron Bay Boardriders and surfing in this region.
Ben’s progression from junior competitor to administrator followed a path familiar to many of our large band of volunteers who keep the “engine-room” of Australian surfing thriving. First joining the Byron Seahorse Boardriders Club [BBBRC] in 1978 at 14, he was second in the club junior championship. His competitive surfing career continued as he represented the Club and NSW at National championships, whilst completing his trade apprenticeship.
Ben jumped into the administrator’s chair as President of the BBBRC in 2001 after serving his surfing apprenticeship under previous President Paul Sullivan working on Club activities and the annual Easter Classics. Ben has presided over the management committees for the Easter Classics since 2002 as part of his Club Presidency role, seeing ever increasing sponsorship, community support and promotion.
The BBBRC has also followed the same path, building its profile within the Byron Bay community. Ben was a special person in that he was prepared to personally work hard for the goals he helped set for the club and made the time available and had the interest, to support and mentor those around him to develop a team. Over many years Ben’s enthusiasm has ignited ideas and effort bringing outstanding results for BBBR.
All members have benefited and the sport of surfing and Surfing Australia have become “richer” as a result of his involvement. Ben’s generosity in opening his house to many members of the surfing “family” during their travels brought him many friends and acquaintances. Sport administrators of Ben’s calibre are few, a true community focused person who had the knack of bringing projects together and building them to their “next level”, all for his “love of surfing”.
Surfing will miss the future contributions that Ben would have made, but his legacy is left for us all to nurture. As the peak surfing body in the country, we are grateful to and rely upon, persons such as Ben who dedicate their efforts to the organisation of the sport within their community. Surfing Australia, Surfing NSW and Surfing Far North Coast, acknowledge Ben’s work for the sport he loved and offer our sincere condolences to Jenny and family.
2006 MARGARET RIVER PRO PRESENTED BY O'NEILL Previous Champions off to a flying start at the Margaret River Pro March 27, 2006 - Surfers Point, Margaret River—Perfect waves to 1.5m (4 -6ft) greeted the 200-strong field of international surfers gathered at Surfers Point in the south west of Western Australia for day one the annual Margaret River Pro presented by O'Neill.
Under sunny cloudless skies and with a brisk offshore wind creating high performance conditions, former event champion Neco Padaratz opened the event with an ominous heat win defeating Portugal's Tiago Pires. Padaratz scored an excellent 8.17 out of a possible 10 for a long barrel ride and backed that score up with a strong 6.5 to easily win the heat.
Padaratz is surfing in the event following a lengthy ban placed on him by the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) last season. He is now forced to compete from round one at all the World Qualifying Series (WQS) events this year in an attempt to requalify for the elite World Championship Tour (WCT).
With the ban behind him, Padaratz seems determined to simply get on with the job and following his win today said: "I love surfing here at Margaret River. We seem to always get great powerful waves here and I have had many good results here including a win in 2004. It's very important to me this event, obviously more important now than maybe ever before, so I look forward to doing my very best and hopefully achieving a great result. I know it's hard from Round One but I believe I can do it."
The other big and successful comeback today was from another former event champion in Michael Campbell. Like Padaratz, Campbell has been a longstanding and highly-rated WCT surfer who at one stage was rated number two in the world (1998). Eighteen months ago he needed a break from the grind of the world tour and retired, but is using this event to make his comeback.
In his four-man heat today, Campbell finished second behind local Yallingup surfer Jay Davies, with first and second positioned surfers both progressing to Round Two. Campbell looked nervous early in the heat falling on some potentially high-scoring waves, but settled in and managed to complete two good rides to narrowly progress ahead of experienced local surfer Brett Hardy.
Other standout surfers on day one of the event included Gold Coast surfers Shaun Harrington and Clint Kimmins, along with New Zealand's Bobby Hansen. The event runs all week with highest-seeded surfers expected to enter the water at Round Four on Thursday. Among them will be local West Australian champion and number one seed Jake Paterson, 2005 defending champion Queenslander Troy Brooks, plus the legendary Mark Occhilupo in his first time back to Margaret River since 2001 and most likely his last given his pending retirement.
As well as spectacular competition between the world's top surfers, the event showcases the unique virtues of the State's beautiful South West, including Margaret River's stunning beaches, breathtaking natural settings and premium Western Australian food and wine. Major sponsors include Tourism Western Australia and new presenting sponsor O'Neill Australia, the world's leading wetsuit supplier and a committed supporter of Australian surfing and ASP events worldwide.
For interviews and further information, please contact: Julie Cameron, PR & Media Director Email: julie@jewelspr.com.au
BRAZIL
COUNTDOWN FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OF SURF SUB-18 IN BRAZIL The best junior surfers of the world begin countdown for the biggest world-wide event of the category sub-18 of the world-wide surf. The Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championships 2006, will be going to join around 30 countries with team of people in Maresias, northern coast of Sao Paulo, between the days 06 to 14 of May. The team of Brazil is a penta-champion Pan-americano of surf and top of world this year, promising Brazilian Confederation of Surf (CBS) to go with everything for the events world championships of surf.
For one of the biggest events for teams of the world, Brazil looks better for their position in the picture of the world-wide champions. In the last two years the Brazilian team was in third (Tahiti). For that, the new technician of the CBS, Otoney Xavier - black Brazilian champion for Saint Catarina, will have great challenges to equal the only victory of the category conquered in the world championship of 2003 in the South Africa.
For the president of the International Surfing Association (ISA), Fernando Aguerre, " The Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championship is the biggest and most important Junior event of the world. Last year we had 27 national teams in Califórnia, and I anticipate a great number for Maresias. To be an part of a national team is the biggest honor that any sportsman of any kind could have. The biggest difference for Brazil is the fact that surfing is the sport where the Brazilians they have more chance of gaining golden medals and world-wide champions are consecrated ".
Fernando Aguerre, president ISA, and Juca de Barros, president CBS, are finalizing the agreements for the realization of the Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championships. The world-wide junior, sub-18, is a fulfilled event every year for the International Surfing Association (ISA) and it is sponsored by Quiksilver International for the next three years. Next year the 2007 Quiksilver ISA World Juniors will be carried out in Portugal.
SANS AND BILLABONG PRESENTS: THE NOR’EASTER SURF CLASSIC CSA/SANS will be holding a qualifier for the selection of the Canadian team for the 2006 Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Games to be held in Brazil and the 2006 ISA World Surfing Games to be held in California. The qualifiers are to be held on April 14-15, 2006 at White Point Beach Lodge on the south shore of Nova Scotia. The contest is being held with the help of "BILLABONG".
QUIKSILVER’S ARITZ ARANBURU WINS OPEN COPA MANGO PLAYA NOSARA JAIRO PEREZ RETAINS LEAD WITH BOYS DIVISION WIN; JASON TORRES STILL JUNIOR CHAMP Playa Nosara, COSTA RICA March 7, 2006 – The fifth date of Costa Rica’s Circuito Nacional de Surf (CNS)—and the last of three Copa Mango contests—was completed this past weekend in nearly always excellent conditions that ranged from 3 to 7 feet in Playa Nosara. In what proved to be the hardest-fought victories so far this year for the champions of these particular 11 categories, the surfers who eventually powered their way into the finals did so from a record number of 193 inscribed challengers.
Meanwhile, the level of Costa Rican surfing experience has continued to attract international attention. As a matter of fact, when all was said and done on Sunday afternoon, and the judges had tallied the final points, the Copa Mango Nosara Open winner was 20-year-old Association of Professional Surfing (ASP) World Qualifying Series (WQS) ranked Quiksilver teamrider Aritz Aranburu, who flew to Costa Rica from his home in Zarautz, Spain between international contests to participate in the CNS.
Aranburu, whose skills bested Playa Hermosa's Ronald Reyes (2nd), Playa Limon's Luis Castro (3rd) , and Jaco's Jason Torres (4th), had based himself in Tamarindo for the past two weeks, surfing Guanacaste beaches such as Tamarindo, Grande, Langosta and other spots. He returned to Spain on Wednesday, March 8, and will resume his 2006 WQS schedule, where he is currently at #85.
Torres, who was able to take the Junior crown in Nosara as he did in Dominical, worked the same, confident strategy on land that he surfed in the water, by turning to Aranburu after receiving his 4th place medal on the Open winner’s stand and telling Aritz: “I’ll beat you next time.”
Meanwhile, Jaco's Jairo Perez stormed back to 1st place in the Boys category with his patented aggressive surfing in Nosara. His confidence in the water again 2nd place Anderson Tascon (Playa Herradura), 3rd place Carlos Muñoz (Playa Esterillos Oeste) and 4th place Derek Gutierres (Quepos) is exemplified between heats, where he was seen off by himself concentrating on the contest.
The Junior division was the best entertainment of the two-day event, prompted once again by the dogfight between Perez and his good friend Torres, still working off the adrenalin of Jason’s gold medal Junior win in Peru's Pan-American Surfing Games, and Jairo’s desire to beat him since then. (Now every heat with Perez is exciting—he’s on fire, and currently ranked #1 Boys, and #2 Juniors—the latter behind Jason, for now.)
Costa Rica’s five-time National Women’s Champion Lisbeth Vindas returned from months of international competition—currently #6 on the Asociacion Latinamericano de Surf LatinPro circuit; #29 on the WQS—to once again shake up the female categories.
Yet, the winners of the Copa Mango Nosara date were first timers at the top…again: Kristian Wilson, a United States gal who has made the finals twice before, was the Women's leader, while 11-year-old Jordan Huntley, who moved to Jaco from Michigan and began surf training with Coach Mauricio Vinaño only 8 months ago, made her debut on the winner's stand with a solid, focused 1st place Junior Women's performance.
All 1st place winners in the 11 categories of this 4-star Copa Mango Nosara tournaments received 1,500 points for their ranking points. The Copa Mango, a three-date contest-within-a-contest format sponsored by Mango Skate & Surf Shop, began in Playa Hermosa, was followed in Playa Dominical and finished with this date in Playa Nosara. Ranking points and prizes were awarded to the winner of these three dates, as well as added to the overall rankings of the CNS.
The Grand Finals of the CNS will be April 7 and 8 in Playa Hermosa.
OPEN LEADER ISAAC VEGA FACES JASON TORRES, THREE OTHERS IN CLOSE 2005-06 TITLE RACE THAT WILL BE DECIDED AT THE YEAR’S CONCLUDING COMPETITION Playa Hermosa, COSTA RICA March 30, 2006 -- Antonio Pilurzu, head of Costa Rica’s Federacion de Surf (FS), announced today that the last tournament of the 2005-06 Circuito Nacional de Surf (CNS) will take place next weekend, Saturday and Sunday, April 7-8 in Playa Hermosa. Called the Grand Final, this 6-star contest, will begin each day at 6:30 a.m., in front of Hotel Backyard.
Inscriptions will take place Friday, April 6, from 5-7 p.m. at JASS (Jaco Surf Shop). The price is c6000 for this date only, with c6000 to register for the entire year if you did not pay the annual fee at a previous contest. According to Pilurzu, “The Grand Finals is the most important date of all of the six contests this year. The surfing in all the categories has been excellent.
Of the top five guys right now in the Open category, they are so close in points; any one of them could win for the entire year.” For the CNS Grand Finals 6-star contest, 1st place winners in each of the 11 categories will add 2,500 points to their ranking scores.
Currently, only 960 points separates #1 ranked Isaac Vega from Tamarindo (5200 points) from the newly-ranked-at #2 Jason Torres of Jaco (4240 points). José Montoya of Dominical, a veteran of the Circuito since the contest’s inception six years ago, moved up to #3 after Copa Mango Nosaro with 4095 points, slightly ahead of the new rising star from Limon, Luis Castro, at #4 with 4020 points.
Solid competitor Durby Castillo of Pavones is still in it #5 with 3965 points. For Vega who has maintained the Open rankings lead all year, there’s a lot of pressure, says Pilurzu. To prepare, after the last CNS contest in Nosara, he traveled to Huntington Beach, California to the Vans Pro, where he made his WQS debut against surfers with more experience.
This strategy of pitting himself against higher level surfers in different international competitive arenas had worked to improve Vega’s confidence back in Costa Rica’s Circuito twice before, resulting in 1st place trophies at the Pinilla Classic and Copa Mango Dominical. Just last month, Vega was awarded the top prize here at home in the Copa Mango mini-tournament, sponsored by Costa Rica’s Mango Skate & Surf Shop.
This contest-within-the-Circuito tallied points for the Hermosa, Dominical and Nosara dates. (The remaining Copa Mango winners are: Juniors—Torres; Boys—Jairo Perez /Jaco; Grommets—Carlos Muñoz/Esterillos; Mini-Grommets—Alberto Muñoz/Esterillos; Longboard—Ronald Reyes/Jaco; Longboard Women—Zephyr Robb/Jaco; Bodyboard—Ivan Castillo/Quepos; Women—Natalie Bernold /Tamarindo; Junior Women—Natalie Bernold/Tamarindo; Master—Louis Maresca/Tamarindo.)
The CNS Grand Finals will also bring an exciting conclusion to the battle in the Junior division between Costa Rica’s Pan American Games Junior gold medal winner Torres and Perez, who have been riding maneuver to maneuver ever since they got back from the international contest this past January. Going into Hermosa, a mere 370 points separates Perez from Torres’ lead.
With Lisbeth Vindas away earlier this year trying to best her Top 30 in the Association of Professional Surfing’s World Qualifying Series ranking, this will be the first time in six years she has relinquishes her title. Therefore, the Women’s division will have a new champion, and that will most certainly be San Diego, California’s Ana Caraway, according to Pilurzu. As one of the foreign surfers who entered the CNS, her experience showed in the category.
“The Circuito is open for everybody,” Pilurzu explains. “The Costa Rican surfers need to grow, and when international surfers with more experience enter the Circuito, it’s a good opportunity for our guys and girls to raise their level of competition.”
Also assured, in the Grommets and Mini-Grommets, members of the Rancho Coral team—most likely the Muñoz brothers—Carlos and Alberto—or Danny Bishko—will take the championship. Various members of that Playa Esterillos group have dominated those categories all year. Louis Maresco (Tamarindo), Ronald Reyes (Hermosa) and Ivan Castillo (Quepos) are expected to win Masters, Longboard and Bodyboard, respectively, as well.
For more information about the Circuito Nacional de Surf’s Grand Finals, please call in Costa Rica (506) 244-2400. Federacion de Surf rankings can be viewed at _www.surfingcr.net_ www.surfingcr.net
MAGNUM MARTINEZ WAS INVITED BY RED BULL TO THE NIGHT SHOW 3 March 2006 - Magnum Martinez, Latin American surf champion 2004, was specially invited by Red Bull to participate on Saturday, March 4th in the Red Bull Night Show. This is an event that takes place at night and will give U$S 6,000 to whom perform the best tricks in the lit beaches of Salinas in Ecuador. This Quiksilver-team-member was grateful for the invitation that will let him compete with twelve athletes from different Latin American countries.
The Venezuelan surfer, who will be 32 next March 8th, was competing this past weekend in the Reef Classic Latin Pro Montañita Carnival 2006, ALAS' tour forth stop. This time he got to the quarter finals in the classic Montañita's rights Martinez had won in this same place some years ago in 1994 and 2004. In these days Magnum is on the third place of the ALAS' ranking when just four stop of the tour had taken place
During the "Red Bull Night Show" Martinez will share the actions with a selected group of athlets specially invited by Red Bull. They are: Kalle Carranza, Martín Passeri, Diego Naranjo, Manuel Selman, Salvador Voyset, Gabriel Villarán, Andrés Fernández, Carlos Gonzalvez, Carlos Goncalves, Gary Saavedra and Sebastian Santos.
After his performance in Ecuador, Magnum Martinez will fly to California where he will pack his luggage again to fly to Australia where he will participate in the "Vodafone Open" which will take place in Newcastle, this event is part of the WQS' circuit calendar that is organized by the ASP (Association of Surfing Professionals).
PREPARATION OF THE TEAM OF FRANCE HOPE World Junior Surfing Games 2006 - In the next few weeks before the World championships of Junior Surfing ISA, FFS and Didier Piter reveals you the outlines of the preparation of the Team from France Hope, which will take place in Aquitaine and that will come to an end on place in Brazil.
A new system of selection - "Our surfers are ready and we are not therefore going to change drastically their surfing on this last week. On the other hand, we program with different coaches of course of study of high level (Guadeloupe and Meeting including) several specific bets in situation in competitions, in order to get close to most requirements of criteria of judgement (Refinement of trajectories, etc).
We shall arrive on place at Maresias 5 days before the beginning of event. It will allow us to evaluate waves, with the intention of taking in concrete terms the measure of the blip. This prior stage is decisive in the preparation of riders. Final selection will be made on teh remaining three days on 5 series. Choosing of younger surfers will also be important.
With 4 places for 6 young surfers, this new principle of selection is for them a perfect bet of training for their future. In effect, during the next World championships Hope ISA 2007, the Team of France will be deprived of Roman Put and Jeremy Florès who pass in category Open".
GOOD VIBES GRACE THE BUFFALO BIG BOARD CLASSIC AT MAKAHA
Synchronized Surfing - Whether it was the handful of prominent elders in the Hawaiian surfing community, the plethora of Hawaii’s hottest pro surfers, or the pods of whales and dolphins frolicking on the horizon, the first weekend of the Buffalo Big Board Classic at Makaha, March third and fourth, was good fun for all in attendance.
Hundreds of people from the mainland, Tahiti, Japan and Hawaii came out to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of this Westside tradition in shoulder high surf and sunny skies. Originally sponsored by Don “Tiny Bubbles” Ho in 1977, this event, created by legendary waterman Buffalo Keaulana, has become a yearly ritual for many local families to gather at Makaha.
In fact, not even a shark sighting during the Open Men’s longboard heat could deter the clans from having a ball. Although the shark interrupted the action for 20 minutes, that was the only break from wave riding during the whole weekend. Unlike conventional surf comps where the highest scoring rides are given to the surfer who completes high performance maneuvers and stays close to the pocket, contestants in Buff’s Big Board Classic instead are judged based upon a list of 14 tricks and length of ride.
The list of tricks grows every year and were all founded upon the style of Buffalo Keaulana. Big Board maneuvers like “Switch Stance Turn” and “Cheater Five” are also found in competitive longboarding. But, maneuvers like the “Dead Cockaroach” and the “King’s Stance” are unique to this recreational contest. Buff’s Big Board Classic also features boards that you wouldn’t find in a regular surf contest.
For example, the Open Men and Women’s longboard divisions require a surfboard measuring at least ten feet. If you think that’s too big than you ain’t seen nothing yet, brah. The Beach Boy Division requires competitors to use 12 foot something boards and 6 foot something paddles to stand up paddle into Makaha’s peeling rights.
While the Paipo Board and Bully Board Divisions resemble your everyday bodyboard, except for the fact that the smaller, skinnier Paipo is made out of wood. The Bullyboard resembles a sled on the back of jet skis. The Paipos, Ten footers, and Beach Boy boards got the heat time this past weekend as the opening rounds of the Longboard, Paipo, Team Longboard and Beach Boy divisions were completed.
Surfers like Brian and Rusty Keaulana, Dave Parmenter, Duane and Desiree Desoto and Kainalu Froseith were west side favorites that advanced in multiple divisions. Darkhorses like Sam George and myself snuck through to the next weekend of competition.
Mike Latronic SURFERMag.com Correspondent
NEW ZEALAND
HAWKER FENDS OF OPPONENTS AND SHARK AT BILLABONG GROM SERIES-EVENT 3 12th March 2006 at Piha Beach Auckland -- A huge shark sighted within the contest arena and subsequent beach closure could not deter Ryan Hawker (Piha) from giving it his all to take his first win in the 2006 Billabong Grom Series presented by Oceanbridge. In home waters Hawker was dominating his opponents when his semi final was temporarily called to shore after a huge shark was sighted.
He was itching to get back out there straight away and after winning his semi final he went on to blitz the final in 1.0m - 1.5m waves on the 'Piha Bar'. Hawker surfed two good scoring rides of 7.25 and 6.75 before putting the final nail in the coffin with his last wave which scored an excellent 8.5. Hawker's surfing was tight on his backhand and the amount of spray that he threw impressed everyone.
Hawker commenting on the conditions "Yeah I enjoyed it out there, the other event I went in, the surf was real small but it was good out there and perhaps some of the other competitors struggled with the conditions but I enjoyed it". The series accolades fittingly went to second placed surfer at this event - Keone Campbell (Tara) who wins the air ticket to Australia and entry into the Billabong Occy Grom Comp on the Gold Coast.
Campbell sealed his runner up placing on his last ride of 5.60 and the series win will be rewarding for Campbell who has placed runner up in all three events of the series. The two goofy footers in the final, Braedon Williams (WGM) and Sean Peggs (Tairua) could not match the backhand attacks of Hawker and Campbell and had to settle for third and fourth respectively after impressing everyone in the preliminary rounds.
Paige Hareb (Tara) made it three from three in the series with yet another win in the Under 16 Girls. She started the final with a near perfect 9.5 which included several powerful forehand gouges in the pocket of the wave. Late in the heat she surfed another 7.50 point wave to 'combo' her fellow competitors (other three finalists required more than a perfect ten point ride to catch her).
Grace Spiers (WGM) looked to be in the hunt early on after scoring a 6.75 but could not keep up with Hareb and finished second ahead of India Wray Murane (Mur) in third and Alexis Poulter (Piha) in fourth. All the stars aligned for Johnnie Hicks (Gis) to take out the Under 14 Boys Division at the event and seal the series win. Landem Collier (Gis) and Blake Myers (WGM) placed third and fourth respectively.
Hicks was recently named in the New Zealand Junior Surfing team and his 16.75 heat total will be a good confidence boost as he builds to the World Junior Champs in May. Alex Dive (TGA) achieved his career best result with a second placing in the final. Dive surfed well on his backhand and looked comfortable in the punchy lefthanders.
Alexis Poulter (Piha) saved her best until last with a win this weekend and her first of the series. Recently moving to Piha has obviously helped her surfing and she used her local knowledge to fearlessly tackle the big waves. A heat total of 9.50 was enough to take the win ahead of Grace Spiers (WGM). With a second placing Spiers secured the series win and the ticket to Australia. Georgia Cooper (Piha) placed third ahead of Renee Pearson (Gis) in fourth.
Local boys Tane Wallis and Ben Poulter continued their battle and with one win a piece in the series, the winner would take all the spoils. This time it was the calculated Wallis that was too good for the others posting 14.60 in the final. Busting out of the gates with what turned out to be the highest wave score of the final, a 9.25, Wallis was always in control of the heat. Poulter started well with a 6.0 point ride but needed an 8.26 to win. Brad Pitcher (WGM) placed third with Damien Tafu (Piha) in fourth making his first final of the series.
Gabe Marriot (Gis) won the Under 12 Girls Division and in doing so clinched the series jumping ahead of Ella Williams (WGM) who finished fourth today. Marriot scored 9.40 in the final to pip Ella Spiers (WGM) for first. Spiers finished ahead of Georgia Te Brake (WGM) in third with Williams in fourth and Nalu Maria Miers (Auck) in fifth.
BILLABONG GROM SERIES WINNERS Under 16 Boys - Keone Campbell (Tara) Under 14 Boys - Johnnie Hicks (Tara) Under 12 Boys - Tane Wallis (Piha) Under 16 Girls - Paige Hareb (Tara) Under 14 Girls - Grace Spiers (WGM) Under 16 Girls - Gabe Marriott (Gis)
Background Event Information The Grom Series visits three of New Zealand's most noted surf beaches being Mount Maunganui, Whangamata and Piha on Auckland's West Coast. Over the past several years, similar events have spawned what are now household surfing names in the form of 2005 Open and Junior Men's National Champion Richard Christie (Mah), 2004 National Women's Champion Airini Mason (Gis), and current Junior Men's Champion Kierin Van Der Helder (Rag). The Billabong Grom Series will again unearth New Zealand's future stars in 2006 as the cream of the crop rise to the challenge.
The events also provide the first time opportunity for many youngsters to surf competitively. Along with this experience, each competitor gets to meet other surfers from around New Zealand making friendships and becoming familiar with what it takes to make it to the top of their sport. In 2006 Oceanbridge are the presenting sponsors and the event is held in association with e2, Clearasil and UV Triple Guard. Each event will feature a stack of giveaways from these sponsors as well as games for the competitors and spectators.
The Billabong Grom Series is brought to you by Billabong, Oceanbridge, e2, Clearasil, UV Triple Guard, The Edge, Von Vipper and Kustom.
For further information on the Billabong Grom Series presented by Oceanbridge, please contact Ben Kennings at Surfing New Zealand 021 2278732 or email benkennings@surfingnz.co.nz.
TAYLOR JENSEN WINS THE “V” SOUTH ISLAND LONGBOARD PRO-AM 17th - 19th March 2006 in Meatworks, Kaikoura – The following are the final results of the V South Island Longboard Pro-Am Series, in association with Hyundai:
MENS OPEN 1, TAYLOR JENSEN (USA) 2, JOSH CONSTABLE (Aust) 3, BRENDON YOUNG (H Bay) 4, MICHAEL FITZHARRIS (Gis) 5=, JESSE JERRAMS (Aust) 5=, LEE RYAN (UK)
WOMENS OPEN 1, CHELSEA WILLIAMS (Aust) 2, LAUREN RAYNER (Aust) 3, SOPHIA MOORE (Mur) 4, EVE WELCH (ChCh)
U18 1, KIRK BEYER (Wgtn) 2, DYLAN BARNFIELD (Ohope) 3, SAM GUTHRIE (Mnt) 4, TOM OWENS (NZ)
OVER 40'S 1, BRENDON YOUNG (H Bay) 2, GLENN SHUKER (ChCh) 3, IAN FLETCHER (ChCh) 4, MICKEY THOMSON (Rag)
OVER 50'S 1, MIKE PIMM (Aust) 2, LES MONEY (NZ) 3, TIM CLEMENCE (NZ) 4, DAVID STORCK (Auck)
OLD MAL 1, DANE WILSON (AUST) 2, STEVE MONTELL (AUST) 3, STEVE TYRO (NZ) 4, TONY LOWE (NZ)
NOSERIDER 1, JOSH CONSTABLE (Aust) 2, DANE WILSON (NZ) 3, JESSE JERRAMS (AUST) 4, LEE RYAN (UK)
This event would not be possible without the sponsorship of "V" and Hyundai and the support of Sumner and Kaikoura Longboarders as well as Surfing New Zealand.
LAURIE TOWNER AND JAIMEE WHEATLEY WIN THE BILLABONG PRO-TEEN SERIES
18th March 2006 in Manu Bay, Raglan, New Zealand -- 19-year-old surfer Laurie Towner (Angourie) has had the kind of week you would dream about. Seven days ago, the talented natural footer was surfing 15-foot Shipsterns Bluff with Andy Irons and Joel Parkinson, today he reclaimed the ASP Australasian Junior Series ratings lead with an emphatic win over Owen Wright (Culburra) at the Billabong Pro Teen-Series surf event in New Zealand.
The final day of competition was forced to relocate 20 minutes south of Manu Bay Raglan today, finalising at Ruapuke Beach in clean 3-4ft rip bowl right handers. The conditions, while not nearly resembling the monsters Towner conquered last week in Australia were well suited to the tall natural footer, adapting his powerful brand of top turns to the glassy walls.
"It's been a really good week for me and I'm just happy everything has panned out the way it has," said Towner. "It's been a week of highs, good waves at Shipsterns and then I won the contest, I couldn't be happier. I'm stoked to be back on top of the ratings as well, it's a good feeling."
In one of the best finals seen in junior competition this year, the two event standouts traded blows for the entire 25 minutes with Wright striking first, posting an 8.00 just moments after the first siren. Towner fought back to score two mid range 6.75 rides and take the lead before securing it with the finals top scoring wave of an 8.50 shortly after.
Leaving Wright needing a 7.14 in the latter stages of the exchange, Towner used the priority rule wisely, holding his young challenger of any wave that would have offered up the required score. Wright, who knocked out and inform Mitch Coleborn (Maroochydore) in the Semi Finals, scored his best Pro-Junior result today in the highly rated Billabong Pro-Teen Series.
The 16-year-old kid wonder has been regularly taking down big names throughout competition in 2006 and is remarkably eligible to compete on this series for another four years. With one of the best forehand re-entries in the business, the result may have unfolded differently if more swell had allowed the contest to be run at Manu Bay, the long left hander which is the events usual home.
"I'm stoked to make a final again and it was close," said Wright. “After Laurie got that 8.50 he pretty much nailed it. I was just trying to do an air at the end and got close twice but just couldn't pull it around.” Also securing a Semi Final result today was Michael Spencer (Lake Munmorah). Having struggled to post the same results that saw him climb to seventh on the junior ratings in 2005, the tall Natural footer welcomed a return to form after battling a badly injured ankle for much of the year.
In the Billabong Pro-Teen Junior Girls Division, West Australian surfer Jaimee Wheatley overcame a dangerous Airini Mason (Tugun) to win her first ever ASP Australasian Junior Series event today. The 20-year-old who is competing in her last year as a junior triumphed in the clean conditions, posting two scores of an 8.50 and a 7.75 to leave her opponent requiring a combination of rides to beat her.
Wheatley's maiden event win lifted her to fourth position on the Junior Girls ratings behind Mason, Bronte's Nicola Atherton and Forsters Jessie Hickson. New Zealand born Mason looked to be the inform surfer throughout competition this week but could not match Wheatley in the final.
Opting to ride three smaller inside waves at the beginning of the heat while her opponent waited patiently for the larger set's, the 16-year-old led for over 10 minutes but was put on the back foot when Wheatley knocked up her two best scores. In the end, Mason could not piece together the 16 point combination of scores needed to take the event win away from Wheatley.
Finishing in equal third today was Atherton and young Hawaiian surfer Lelia Hurst. Gold Coast surfer Adam Bennetts pocketed $1000 today curtesy of Kustom Shoes for the Best Kustomised Manoeuvre. Bennetts was awarded the accolade after pulling a perfect pop-shouvit move in his round three heat on Friday.
The best Kustomised Manoeuvre has become an integral part of the Billabong Pro-Teen series in 2006, rewarding innovation within the competition format and throwing out cash to the most radical move throughout event.
Tweed surfer Chris "Chippa" Wilson won the Panasonic Expression Session held just before the finals in a highly explosive 20-minutes of all or nothing aerial surfing. Wilson, who is regarded as one of the most futuristic surfers on the junior circuit pulled a flawless "Passion Pop" move to win a new Panasonic Digital Video Camera.
The Billabong Pro-Teen Series Raglan is supported by Panasonic, E2, UV Triplegard, Clearasil, Kustom, Von Zipper, Tracks and Palmers Surf.
Billabong Pro Teen Series Dates and Locations Feb 7-12 Billabong Pro-Teen Series Gold Coast Feb 15-19 Billabong Pro-Teen Series Wollongong Mar 16-19 Billabong Pro-Teen Series Raglan NZ Mar 29-Apr 2 Wild Surf Co/Billabong Pro-Teen Series Newcastle Sep 27-Oct 1 Billabong Pro-Teen Final: Bells Beach
ASP Australasian Junior Boys Ratings Top 5 8556 Laurie Towner 8339 Mitchell Coleborn 7668 Owen Wright 7556 Julian Wilson 7494 Matt Wilkinson
ASP Australasian Junior Girls Ratings Top 5 8480 Airini Mason 6585 Nicola Atherton 6190 Jessie Hickson 5900 Jaimee Wheatley 5255 Mischa Davis Simon Barratt, Billabong Australia sbarratt@billabong.com.au Ben Kennings, Surfing NZ benkennings@surfingnz.co.nz
MARGINAL CONDITIONS NO OBSACTLE FOR NEW ZEALANDS BEST Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 25 March, 2006 - - This weekends Hyundai Pro Longboard event signalled the first national surf event to be held on the artificial surfing reef at Mount Maunganui’s Tay Street. However the marginal conditions restricted competitors to surfing the natural sand banks around the reef with only small 0.5m – 1.0m waves on offer.
Michael Fitzharris (Gis) continued to lead the charge taking no notice of the average conditions that he had to contend with. Fitzharris progressed through to the quarter finals of the event where he meets up with Lynden Kennings (WGM) and Craig Anderson (Mnt), the three surfers holding fifteen out of twenty nine national titles that have been contested since the division’s inception at the National Champs in 1987.
Kennings was the equal of Fitzharris today impressing everyone in his first competitive event in over three years posting 16.00 in his first heat before winning through to the quarter finals in the afternoon. A little more conspicuous but still effective was Craig Anderson who placed second in both of his heats to move through to the quarters.
Another local surfer to make a comeback was Daryn McBride who surfed exceptionally well on his home turf. McBride is renowned for his traditional style and the judges ‘lapped’ it up as he went on to win his two heats with scores of 10.85 and 12.25 respectively. McBride will now face another local surfer in Jay Reeve and Auckland surfers Tom Kibblewhite and Matt Gillespie in the quarter finals.
Brendon Young (H Bay) couldn’t emulate his success of last weekend in the Open Men’s division but more than made up for it in the Over 40s where he scorched home to win his first heat. Young currently leads the ratings and a win at this event will secure the tour for 2006. Others to win their heats in the Over 40s included Paul Steevens (Mnt) and Michael Thomson (Rag).
The Women rounded out the day’s action and it was the two Australian girls that dominated the play. Chelsey Williams showcased some of the niftiest footwork of the day more than showing up many of the surfers in the men’s divisions. Williams extended her stay in New Zealand after competing in Kaikoura last weekend and while USA’s Taylor Jensen was a no show in the men’s, the New Zealand girls were not afforded the same luxury.
VOLCOM VQS FINGER FISH TOUR Divisions: Pro/Am, Girls, 15-17s and Under 14s Date: Three events on March 25th, April 1st, and April 8th Location: Lyall Bay, Wainui Beach and Manu Bay
For more information, please visit the Surfing New Zealand website www.surfingnz.co.nz
BOYS ON THE WORLD QUALIFYING SERIES ROAD AGAIN The Kiwi boys are back on the road again, this time in Western Australia at the Margaret River Pro WQS four star event. Bobby Hansen (Gis) has progressed through two heats to the third round. Jay Quinn (Gis) is seeded through to the third round and Maz Quinn (Gis) through to the fifth round. Unfortunately Matt Scorringe (WGM) was eliminated in the second round.
The event is scheduled to be completed on Sunday 3rd of April. The event can be viewed live on www.margaretriverpro.com . The four surfers head to Newcastle next week for another event where they are joined by New Zealand's top junior talent who are currently contesting the Australasian Pro Junior Series.
RIP CURL WOMEN'S NATIONALS TAKE TWO The 2006 Rip Curl Women's Nationals will have a second go at running on the 8th - 9th of April at Tay Street Mount Maunganui. The event was postponed until this date due to lack of surf earlier this month. Current weather patterns have favoured the East Coast for surf over the past two weeks so everyone is keeping their fingers crossed for the event.
Rip Curl have upped the ante putting up a whopping $5,000 prize money including $1,500 for the winner of the Open Women. The 6 star Open Women's Division is the first event on the 2006/07 Lion Red Pro Surfing Tour for the girls. There are heaps of spot prizes as well as prizes for the highest heat score and highest single wave score for the event. Entries will remain open until Monday 3rd April.
HYUNDAI PRO LONGBOARD RATINGS RELEASED Official ratings from the Hyundai Pro Longboard Tour have been updated after event five held at Mount Maunganui last weekend. The tour has one event remaining in Gisborne on the 13th - 14th May.
Hyundai Pro Longboard Tour Ratings: Open Men 1 Michael Fitzharris (Gis) 2 Tom Kibblewhite (Auck) 3 Mathew Cockayne (Mgwhai) 4 Daniel Proctor (Gis) 5 Brendon Young (Hbay)
Open Women 1 Josephine Moore (Mur) 2 Pauline Pullman (Sandy Bay) 3 Wini Paul (Sandy Bay) 4 Anna Jolly (Piha) 5 Chelsea Williams (Aust)
Junior Men 1 Dylan Barnfield (Ohope) 2 Kirk Beyer (Wgtn) 3 Sam Guthrie (Mnt) 4 Eli Barnfield (Ohope) 5 Warren McKenzie (HBay)
Over 40s 1 Brendon Young (HBay) 2 Mike Thomson (Rag) 3 Dave Ivory (Mngwhai) 4 Dave Stork (Piha) 5 Al Ashworth (Mur)
Over 50s 1 David Storck (Auck) 2 Paul Browne (Auck) 3 Viv Treacy (Ocn Bch) 4 Brin Standeavan (Auck) 5 Ian Parker (Auck)
HYUNDAI PRO POSTPONED The Hyundai Pro scheduled for the 14th - 16th of April at Mount Maunganui has been postponed. Due to further development of the Lion Red Pro Surfing Tour, this event has been rescheduled for the summer of 2007. The event was scheduled to be the first event of the 2006/07 Lion Red Pro Surfing Tour.
SMOKEFREE NATIONAL SCHOLASTIC SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS FEATURING QUIKSILVER'S KING OF THE GROMS The 2006 Smokefree National Scholastic Surfing Championships is fast approaching with twelve teams of feverish groms preparing for the long haul down to Dunedin. The event takes place from the 18th - 22nd April and this year includes Quiksilver's King of the Groms as part of the event. One fortunate surfer in the Under 16 Boys division will win a trip to France to compete in the international King of the Groms alongside the world's best.
The Scholastics is one of few events in New Zealand that is team based where each team member cheers on their fellow surfers. The teams title is hotly contested and has a seventeen year history so a lot is at stake for the youngsters to hold up regional pride.
RIP CURL GROMSEARCH - DUNEDIN The first event of the Rip Curl GromSearch will take place at St Clair Beach Dunedin on the 24th - 25th of April. With the National Scholastics taking place only days prior, the event will attract huge numbers of New Zealand best surfers. Entries to the event will close on Friday the 14th April so be in quick to secure your place in the event. Entry forms are available on www.surfingnz.co.nz.
ONCE AGAIN GARY SAAVEDRA ON TOP March 27, 2006 -- The Panamanian multichampion of surfing, Gary Saavedra, demonstrated all his class again in the second day of the “ NATIONAL CIRCUIT OF SURFING RCM-SOBERANA 2006 GLASS BOLTIO ”, which developed in Beach Venao last weekend.
The Panamanian champion of surfing is placed in the first position of the ranking along with Diego Salgado. Let's remember that in the first day, Saavedra stayed in the second position in spite of being injured in one of his knees.
Later in the week of the competition, Saavedra declared to Surfpress that he was much satisfied by Beach Venao, since he considers it to be his beach and it is always very gratifying to win in the place where one is at home. Also he affirmed that his knee is very likely to keep on giving him trouble in national and international plane.
Days before the competition, the surfer who is born in Chitré, suffered a car accident of which he turned out to be unharmed. A single blow to his knee was the cause of this mishap.
In the next days, Gary Saavedra will begin a demanding training along with the Argentinians Martín Passeri and Ornella Pellizzari, who are already in Panama for a few days. On this matter, Gary realized the importance of becoming well trained for “ Reef Classic Latin Crown ”, which will take place in Malibú, Gorgona from April 13 until April 16, since it would be very important for him to earn this valued title for Panama.
SPAIN WILL COMPETE FOR THE FIRST TIME AT THE QUIKSILVER ISA WORLD JUNIORS NEXT MAY IN MARESIAS, BRAZIL (March 23, 2006) World Surf Champion, the Canabrian Daniel García and Galician Bruno Alabua will manage the first Spanish Junior team selected to take part in the international competition.
This is the first opportunity in the Consitution of the Federación Española de Surf to select a team of this type - the selection was made throughout the last couple months by gathering surfers from all over - Gallegos, Asturianos, Canarios and Cántabros - until 12 athletes had been chosen. The result of these efforts is an important step advancing the selected Spanish team to the International level.
The event will take place from the 6th to the 14th of May, in Maresias, in the district of Sao Paulo. For more information, please visit the FES website at www.fesurf.net
The Spanish Team:
Under 18 Boys GUILLERMO ALONSO LOBO (ASTURIAS) MARIANO GOMEZ-ULLA RUBIRA (GALICIA) IVAN LAYA BESI (CANTABRIA) PABLO MONTERO PRIETO (GALICIA) DAVID MACHÍN TAPIA (CANARIAS)
Under 18 Girls ELENA MATEO GONZÁLEZ (ASTURIAS) CARMEN DEL MAR SIERRA ARANGO (CANTABRIA) ERIKA FRANCO PEREZ (GALICIA)
Under 16 Boys JUAN MERODIO VELASCO (CANTABRIA) JUAN DÍAZ-TERÁN SERNA (CANTABRIA) ALFREDO GARCÍA BARRIGÓN (ASTURIAS) ALEX DIEZ UCEDA (GALICIA)
A LAST WAVE GOODBYE - By Kirstin Scholtz/ tostee.com When Baron Stander died in February after a short illness the South African and International surfing community mourned the loss of a father, grandfather, brother, coach and a friend. Baron connected with 12-year-old grommet in designer board shorts riding the latest high-performance short board and 40-year-old housewives from the suburbs displaying a unique ability to which came from the pure love he had for his sport.
The number of memorials held in Stander’s honour attests to a man who was thoroughly loved by the people of Durban, South Africa and beyond. From a paddle-out memorial at St Michaels on Sea organised by WCT surfer Heather Clark, the paddle out in his memory at the Billabong Juniors Series at St Mike's on the KZN South Coast at the exact time that his funeral began and the paddle out at Addington Beach where he began surfing some 50 years ago to the enormous gathering at the Natal Sharks Board to celebrate, thousands of people paid their respects to this true legend.
For those who rode waves, on longboards, shortboards, twin-fins, single-fins,body boards or even paddle skis, Baron was an icon. From the earliest bellyboard to crocker skis and the evolution of weird and wonderful surfboard shapes, he had ridden them all. In more than 50 years spent on the beach, Baron’s evolution was nothing less than extraordinary. He repeatedly reinvented his career, each time staying in tune with the ocean and surfing.
In his formative years as a lifeguard on Durban’s South Beach in the 1950s, he built lifelong friendships with Max Wetteland, Harry Bold, Graham Hynes, Jimmy Sutherland and Denny Wilson. These were men who had been part of surfing in its early days, just as the sport was becoming a worldwide phenomenon. It was in these sun-filled days that South African surfing was born.
From chance meetings with people such as Californian Dick Metz, who revealed the Hang Ten to the South Beach locals one rainy summer day, to trips to California, Bali, France and Australia to the testing of various shapes and material for surfboards, Baron and the surfers of era were the test pilots of what we surfers have today.
In 1964, Baron co-founded the Natal Surfriders' Association and was both President and chairman for over 20 years. Like many surfers Barons love for the ocean included a passion for fishing. It was a pastime he enjoyed late into his retirement, when he would make many trips to St Francis to fish with his dear friend, Graham Hynes.
Hynes recalls how Stander would catch a fish and then kiss it, throwing it back into the ocean, saying this was for his grandchildren, whom he loved dearly. Baron was not only a recognised face throughout the surfing community but he was also a household name in Durban's non-surfing community, thanks to his newspaper columns and, more especially, his daily radio surf reports, which began in 1966.
In a broadcasting career spanning 37 years, he kept Radio Port Natal and East Coast Radio listeners informed about surfing and fishing. He wrote numerous surf columns in a number of different newspapers, one of which appeared every Friday in the Daily News, called The Way the Wind Blows, which would give tips on where to surf and how to do so safely.
Baron turned his attention to the youth, starting a surf clinic at the Natal Technikon, and formed a school for black surfers. Everyone who knew Baron will have heard his motto at one time or another: "Winners never whine and whiners never win," which helped the likes of former WCT surfers Pierre Tostee, Kay Holt and Heather Clark achieve at the highest level.
Baron was married to his rock, Dawn, for 44 years. They had three sons, Kurt, Rory and Baron jnr - and eight grandchildren - seven boys and one girl who Baron proudly named Chelsea, on air. One of his legacies will forever be the Time Warp Surfing Museum, which today houses the crown jewels of South African surfing history.
A variety of weird and wonderful surf craft hang from the ceiling and there are pictures of memories plastered all over the walls. The museum is in the Ocean Sports Centre opposite New Pier. Those who had the honour of meeting Baron will know the real museum existed in his mind, which produced enough stories to print a newspaper.
He would tell of the first surf contest held in Durban, which consisted of downing a few quarts of beer at backline and then seeing who could surf all the way to the beach balancing the bottle on the nose of the board. From swimming out to the shark nets on New Year's Eve, to running over cars on the Golden Mile, Baron clearly had the time of his life. Although his time in the water decreased, as he grew older, he would sneak in the occasional surf when he could.
Many knew him as the little man with a big heart, whose charisma and charm were intoxicating. As his wife Dawn recalled, all he achieved was thanks to the incredible friends and surfers he was surrounded by throughout his life - all of whom played an integral part in the life of this wonderful character.
All these memories help when saying farewell to our dear friend Baron, who although a little man was a larger than life surfing icon. May the waves be clean and the wind blow forever offshore.
Rest in Peace.
IT'S GOOD TO BE THE KING: Shaun Joubert takes the first crown in the Quiksilver King Of The Groms presented by Peugeot and Samsung. Keegan Nel wins the U20 division. Series sanctioned by Surfing South Africa 5 March 2006 - In what was arguably one of the hottest days of the year, Shaun Joubert of Mossel Bay blitzed his way through the premier Under 15 grom division to take the first crown in the 2006 Quiksilver King Of The Groms series.
The event was completed in four to five-foot glassy rights and a few lefts on a perfect day in Cape Town when the wind forgot to blow and by all accounts the first Quiksilver King of The Groms was a huge success and extremely well-received by all the competitors.
Joubert, who surfed both divisions and made it to the quarters of the U20 division, seemed to be in the water the whole day, and displayed incredible stamina to beat Brendon Gibbens of the Southern suburbs of Cape Town the Grom final. Joubert took out Michael February of Kommetjie in their man-on-man semi and Gibbens beat Dale Staples of Cape St Francis in the other semi.
Eventual under 20 champion Keegan Nel of East London took out Kommetjie local Dave Richards in their semi final and went on to beat Jordy Smith of Durban who edged out Brett Shearer, another Kommetjie surfer in a somewhat wave-starved semi final. The final was a fairly close affair, with Jordy only managing one decent scoring wave while Keegan, who waited patiently for sets, managed to get two good rides and gathered enough points for a win.
The inaugural Quiksilver King Of The Grom event presented by Peugeot and Samsung and sanctioned by Surfing South Africa attracted an entry from 90 amped surfers with the Under 15's competing for the coveted King Of The Grom crown, and the Under 20's going all out to win a return ticket to Hawaii which goes to the series winner of this division.
The Peugeot Expression Session and R500 was won by Damien Fahrenfort of Kommetjie for the Best Air, and Brandon Roberts of Fish Hoek won the same amount for the Most Innovative Move for a huge carving 360 on an outside set wave.
The Zigzag Blowing Up Award was won by a blasting Shearer, who surfed hard the whole event and was unlucky not to make a final. He took home the Hand Grenade trophy and R1000 for his efforts.
Final Results
Grom (U15) Division: KING - Shaun Joubert.; Mossel Bay 2 - Brendan Gibbens : Cape Town 3 - Dale Staples : Cape St Francis 3 - Michael February : Kommetjie
U20 Division: 1 - Keegan Nel : East London 2 - Jordy Smith : Durban 3 - Brett Shearer : Kommetjie 3 - Dave Richards : Kommetjie
Peugeot Expression Session Most Innovative Turn - Brandon Roberts : Fish Hoek Best Air - Damien Fahrenfort.: Kommetjie Zigzag Blowing Up Award - Brett Shearer.
The next event in the Quiksilver King Of The Groms series take place in East London on the April 8 and 9 and will also use a mobile venue.
Definition: GROM - 'any young surfer; more specifically, an insolent, hyper-enthusiastic and frequently underfoot young surfer.' - The Encyclopedia of Surfing, by Matt Warshaw.
NEPTUNE PROVIDES THE GOODS FOR THE VOLCOM QUALIFYING SERIES FINALS. Sanctioned by Surfing South Africa 12 March 2006 -- Love was in the air for Volcom’s Woodstone ’06 and the ocean enjoyed that fact, as Durban’s Dairy Beach seemed to turn to liquid-gold for Volcom’s Qualifying Series Finals that were held on Sunday, 12 March 2006.
The 60’s inspired theme, “Woodstone”, was an absolute hit amongst the beachgoers and surfers alike and the near-perfect 3-4ft conditions were just an added bonus to a chilled day in the blazing sunshine. It was Durban’s Warwick “Wok” Wright made the most of the superb conditions and comfortably surfed his way into first position in the Open Men’s Final, earning himself a healthy part of the R10 000 cash purse that was up for grabs during the event.
Wright also earned himself a free air-ticket to Los Angeles to compete in the VQS World Championships that will be held at California’s Newport Beach on 12-14 May 2006. His win makes him eligible to compete for the $20 000 cash purse available in that event. But Wright’s victory wasn’t made easy thanks to a spiritually in-tune Mathew Kruger who surfed superbly in the dying minutes of the final. Kruger was still riding on a high from his Blow-Up-Boat-Race victory over St. Francis Bay’s Ryan Payne, who finished an eventual 4th place in the Open Men’s Final ahead of The Bluff’s Shane Warren, who filled the gap in 3rd position.
Volcom Team rider Josh Redman, took the top honours in the Junior division and fell only one heat short of making the Men’s Final as well. Redman was in superb form throughout the event and dominated the 25 minute Junior Final ousting Capetonian’s Brett Shearer (2nd), Klee Strachan (3rd), and Rudy Palmboom from The Bluff.
The girl’s, who spent most of the day hiding from the harsh sun under one of the giant tepee’s that were erected for the event, made the most of their time in the water and put on an excellent display of progressive surfing. It was eventually Stacey Guy who took the Women’s title honours from Tasha Mentasti (2nd), Sarah Maritz (3rd) and Tamarys de Maroussem (4th).
But undoubtedly the highlight of the day was witnessing the Grom Division Finals for boys 15 years and younger. The display put on by all the competitors in this division was totally far-out. Shaun Joubert was the standout of the entire event and sealed the deal with an emphatic win in the final. The young Southern Cape surfer took to the reeling right-handers like a hippie to a campfire sing-along and wowed even the most seasoned spectators.
His win was even more remarkable when one considers that he had to overcome the likes of Dale Staples (4th) and Volcom team-riders Haydn MacNicol (3rd) and Nick Godfrey (2nd).
The “Hippie Expression Session” was also well attended as surfers, dressed in the most ludicrous of 1960’s inspired outfits, took to the water to express their individuality in the ocean’s waves. Michael Varikas was the man who expressed himself best and took first place amongst an absurd looking display of surfing.
Volcom, who work under the credo, “Let the Kids Ride Free” charged no entrance fee in the event and even provided them with a sweet-toothed breakfast of chocolate croissants and frosted donuts, followed by free Pizza for lunch.
The top three finishers in each division are invited to compete in the Volcom World Championships to be held in California’s Newport Beach (USA) from 12-14 May.
Open Men's. 1. Warwick Wright. 2. Matt Kruger. 3. Shane Warren. 4. Ryan Payne.
Women. 1.Stacey Guy. 2.Tasha Mentasti. 3.Sarah Maritz. 4.Tamarys de Maroussem.
"PATTO" BEATS LOCAL STAR AT BAGGIES SURF PRO Sunday, March 19, 2006 at Warner Beach, KZN Upper South Coast - South Africa Dane "Patto" Patterson (Berea) defeated local hero Frankie Oberholzer (Warner Beach) to win the inaugural Baggies Surf Pro in Amanzimtoti. The 3A rated ASP Africa Pro Surf Tour (PST) contest was the first event on the 2006 pro surfing calendar and the first time a pro surfing event has been held in Amanzimtoti.
Patterson didn't waste any time in the pro men's final when he opened up with a strong 7.5-point ride. The entire final was closely contested with the lead changing hands numerous times between Patterson, Oberholzer and Warwick Wright (Durban).
A great exchange of rides from all surfers marked the end of this nail-biting final, Patterson never lost focus and snatched victory on his last wave just one point ahead of Oberholzer who enjoyed the support from his home crowd. After winning his semi-final clash Ricky Basnett (Bluff) was forced to settle for fourth overall.
Not only did Patterson win the event he was also handed the Zigzag Blowing Up Award for his outstanding, consistent performance and he was even more pleased about pocketing another R1, 000 which took his weekend's earnings up to R7, 000. An upset occurred in the second women's semi-final when Warner Beach's Sarah Johnston-Maritz fell short by only 0.2-points of advancing to the final.
In the pro women's final the top seed Rosanne Hodge (East London) took control early on by posting two good scores (5.0 and 5.5). Stacey Guy (Melkbosstrand) came within striking distance, posting a 6.33 in the second half of the final but wasn't able to back it up with another high scoring ride. With only 45 seconds left Guy took off on a promising looking wave; unfortunately for her she fell which left Hodge to catch her last wave with only seconds to go, posting a 6.67 and sealing victory.
Mike Varikas (Durban) won the Seabreeze Home and Builders Expression Session for boosting a spectacular massive air-reverse; he pocketed R2000 for the radical manoeuvre. The R30 000 Baggies Surf Pro was deemed to be a major success by event organizer Frank Horn who is looking forward to staging the contest again in 2007.
2006 Baggies Surf Pro Results Held at Warner Beach (17 to 19 March)
Issued on behalf of: Frank Horn, frank@amanzimtoti.info Baggies Surf Pro Event Organiser
UNITED KINGDOM
BRITISH SURF TEAM ANNOUNCE NEW SPONSORSHIP DEAL WITH FREESPIRIT The BSA are excited to announce that British surfing has received a huge boost from the major high street brand Freespirit, the UK's best known retailer of boardwear & lifestyle clothing and footwear. Freespirit will sponsor the 2006 British Surf Team that will compete at the World Surfing Games, surfing's Olympics, that taking place in California at Huntington Beach in October.
"We are delighted to welcome Freespirit on board" said the BSA National Director, Karen Walton, who negotiated the deal. "It means we can send a full team to build on our great result last time and establish British surfing as a major force on the world stage." (The British Team broke into the top ten at the last WSG held in Ecuador during 2004.) British Team coach Ester Spears was also thrilled and commented that he thought "Freespirit and the BSA would form a great relationship, to the benefit of all in British Surfing."
Adam Smith, Marketing Manager for Freespirit expressed his delight at Freespirit's involvement in British Surfing: "When we heard that the British Surfing Team were looking for new support, we knew that with the values & integrity inherent in Freespirit brand, we should act. Supporting the BSA and the British Surf Team helps ensure British surfers are represented on the world scene.
Hopefully with our help, the British Surfing culture can continue to expand. This new relationship opens up an exciting opportunity for us to promote and expose British surfing within our stores nationwide, developing strong bonds with existing surfers, whilst also inspiring a wannabe surfers to try the sport and live the lifestyle".
Further good news for BSA members is that Freespirit's sponsorship will directly benefit you. Freespirit are offering all BSA members 10% off in Freespirit stores - all you need to do is present your BSA membership identity card at the store to qualify. There are 41 Freespirit stores in the UK, catering for young, active, fashion conscious men and women, so there really are opportunities nationwide for BSA members to take advantage of the partnership with Freespirit.
SURFING AMERICA TO HOLD SPECIAL USA SURF TEAM SELECTION FOR 2006 QUIKSILVER ISA WORLD JUNIOR SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS Coach Peter “PT” Townend will Select 18 Athletes to Represent the USA in Brazil this May San Juan Capistrano, CA – March 6, 2006 - As the USA Surf Team prepares for “Medals in Maresias”, Surfing America is holding a special selection event that will determine the travel squad for the 2006 Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championships which will be held in Maresias, Brazil on May 6th -14th.
Surfing America – the International Surfing Association (ISA) recognized National Governing Body - annually selects the Official USA Surf Team in conjunction with the Surfing America USA Championships presented by SIMA every July. However, a special selection is required before May's Brazil event because many of the Under-16 Boys Team Members graduated on to the Under-18 division as of January 1st.
Building upon silver (2004) and bronze (2005) medals in the program’s first two years, Surfing America is looking to its member organizations to provide new talent in order to fill the vacant spots. The ESA, NSSA, TGSA, and WSA are sending their top Under-16 male athletes to join existing USA Surf Team members - Florida’s Evan Geiselman and California’s Riley Metcalf - in surfing for the six highly regarded slots in the Under 16 Boys' division.
The trial will take place on March 23rd-26th in Huntington Beach, California and should prove who’s primed and ready to meet upwards of 30 nations at the Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championships in May. “We’re obviously looking to take the best team possible to Brazil,” said Coach Townend. “By having the member organizations send their selected best to join our already strong roster, it guarantees the United States will be well represented at the World Junior Surfing Championships.”
Townend, who coached a 1984 National Team to a gold medal as well as the successful 2004 and 2005 efforts, has numerous workouts and exercises planned in which he will use his criteria to evaluate and select the fresh stable of Under-16 Boys. Current USA Surf Team members will also be included in the trial.
Afterwards, Townend will name the 18 youngsters who will be traveling Brazil in May – six in each of the ISA Junior divisions: Under-18 Boys, Under-18 Girls, and Under-16 Boys. However, ISA rules state that only four entrants in each age group can compete in the event. Coach PT prefers to make this a game day decision.
All of the surfers who make up this roster must still re-qualify in July through the USA Championships and USA Surf Team Selection if they plan on being eligible to compete in the 2006 ISA World Surfing Games hosted by Surfing America in Huntington Beach, California this October.
"The USA Surf Team program continues to grow and solidify,” said Surfing America Executive Director Mike Gerard. "We're very pleased to see the pipeline full of tremendous talent and Surfing America is truly grateful to its Member Organizations for their hard work and dedication. Without them, these kids would have no competitive pathway to the USA Surf Team.”
After the traveling squad is selected, the 18 athletes will have just over five weeks to prepare for the Junior World Championships. The event, which is hosted by the Confederacao Brasileira de Surf, kicks off on May 6th in Maresias, Brazil with a Parade of Nations and the Sands of the World ceremony. The competition days run from May 7th until May 14th.
The current USA Surf Team roster:
Under-18 Boys Eric Geiselman - Florida Tanner Gudauskas - California Hunter Heverly – North Carolina Jeff Lukasik - California Matt Mohagen - California Trevor Saunders - California Kai Barger - Hawaii Sebastian Zietz - Hawaii Jordan Gaudet - California Cory Arrambide - California
Under-16 Boys Evan Geiselman – Florida Riley Metcalf - California
Under-18 Girls Christa Alves - Florida Alana Blanchard - Hawaii Demi Boelsterli - California Lindsay Bowman - Virginia Courtney Conlogue – California Bethany Hamilton – Hawaii Amy Nicholl - Florida Lexie Papilion – California Karina Petroni - Florida
Additional Invitees to the USA Surf Team (Selection in March) T.J. Gumiela – New York Nick Rupp – North Carolina Kedren Ferrero – Florida Fisher Heverly – North Carolina Andrew Doheny – California Nat Young – California Dillon Perillo – California Quinn McCrystal – California Brent Reilly – California Kris Wiernicki – Florida Justin Thompson – Texas Nick Hagen – California Sage Erickson - California
About Surfing America, Inc. Surfing America is the ISA-recognized National Governing Body for Surfing in the United States. The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for Surfing, Bodyboarding, and Surfriding
Surfing America is the IRS recognized 501(c) 3 charitable organization responsible for selecting and fielding the official USA Surf Team. All donations made to Surfing America are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. Donation checks should be made payable to: Surfing America, 33157 Camino Capistrano Suite B San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. End of year tax receipts are sent to every individual donor of more than $250. For donations under $250, a cancelled check or credit card statement is sufficient evidence for IRS purposes. Surfing America will send a tax receipt to any donor who requests one.
Press Contact: Mike Cianciulli, Tel 949-276-4660; Fax 949-496-9190
Surfing America Mission Statement The Mission of Surfing America is to promote the growth, competitive success, and positive image of surfing in the USA and to provide the best possible experience for all participants by encouraging, developing, advancing, and administrating the sport--while producing champions.
PACSUN SIGNS ON AS TITLE SPONSOR OF THE 2006 USA SURF TEAM Surf Retail Giant to Support the Nations Top Surfers - San Juan Capistrano, Calif. – March 14, 2006 – Pacific Sunwear of California, Inc. (NASDAQ:PSUN), a leading mall-based specialty retailer, recently signed a sponsorship agreement with Surfing America to be named Title Sponsor of the USA Surf Team.
The union not only proves PacSun’s commitment to the sport of surfing, but also provides financial support for the USA Surf Team program – which is headed by Surfing America, a California 501 (c) 3 non-profit corporation. "Surfing and the California lifestyle is the heart and soul of PacSun," said Dennis Leggett, Vice President, Brand Marketing for PacSun.
"Sponsoring the USA Surf Team is our way of giving back to the sport and helping young athletes achieve their dreams." “This is a tremendous and exciting development that will enable Surfing America to take its USA Surf Team program to an entirely new level,” said Surfing America Executive Director Mike Gerard.
“The relationship with PacSun will significantly increase the USA Surf Team's visibility through a channel that is national in scope, authentic to the sport, and supported by the surf industry.” As Title Sponsor of the USA Surf Team, PacSun will be included in USA Surf Team marketing, advertising, and promotions, as well as board stickers, team uniforms, and logos.
This alignment solidifies the surf industry’s support in the development of a top-tier youth program for America’s rising surf stars. Since being named the International Surfing Association (ISA)-recognized National Governing Body just two years ago, the USA Surf Team has netted silver (2004) and bronze (2005) Team medals as well as several individual medals from ISA events
The USA Surf Team will be sending its junior squad to Maresias, Brazil this May to compete in the 2006 Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championships. Other notable events on the calendar include the 2006 Surfing America USA Championships presented by SIMA in July and the 2006 ISA World Surfing Games hosted by Surfing America in October.
The additional funding from PacSun will also help fuel these high-profile events, in what equals a truly momentous year for the burgeoning USA Surf Team program. “This opportunity reflects the commitment that PacSun shares with its brands in supporting our USA Surf Team and the sport of surfing,” remarked Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA) President Dick Baker.
“Bringing the experience of the core competitive surfer to a national audience will continue to strengthen the connection between the lifestyle and the brand loyal consumer. The surf industry is excited about the visibility, authenticity and vibe that this sponsorship will create for the business of surfing.”
Starting out in 1980 as a small surf shop in Newport Beach, California, PacSun chose a different route than most. In order to survive the wintertime beach shopping doldrums, the founders kept store traffic heavy by moving to a mall. Business spiked quickly during the 80’s and 90’s, along with PacSun’s top selling brands - Quiksilver and Billabong - experiencing a similar growth spurt.
The result is now over 800 storefronts in 50 states and Puerto Rico carrying the surf industry’s finest labels. Carlsbad, California-based Graffy, Inc.--specializing in advertising, sales, and event sponsorship--represented Surfing America in negotiations with PacSun. “This relationship provides a strong strategic alliance—and a grounded, core project for PacSun,” said Robert J. Graff (aka "Graffy"), CEO of Graffy, Inc.
“The program will definitely create brand loyalty for the PacSun customer and there are a tremendous number of activation possibilities. Plus, we all have one common goal - winning the gold medal!”
About Pacific Sunwear of California, Inc. Pacific Sunwear, operating under two distinct retail concepts, is a leading specialty retailer of everyday casual apparel, accessories and footwear designed to meet the needs of active teens and young adults. As of February 25, 2006, the Company operated 814 PacSun stores, 96 PacSun Outlet stores and 196 d.e.m.o. stores for a total of 1,106 stores in 50 states and Puerto Rico. The Company intends to launch its third concept, One Thousand Steps, in April of 2006. PacSun's website address is www.pacsun.com and merchandise carried at d.e.m.o. stores can be found at www.demostores.com
Press Contact: Mike Cianciulli Dawn Boeckermann Surfing America, Inc. SnL Communications Tel 949-276-4660 Tel 310-996-0239
VENEZUELA
MAGNUM MARTINEZ DOESN'T STOP HIS MARCH Magnum Martinez, the Venezuelan surfer, who is member of the Quiksilver international team, is now in California taking on a demanding training routine to be ready for his next international competitions.
The Van's Pro, which is sponsored by Jack's Surfboards and O'Neill, will take place on March from the 22nd to the 26th in Huntington Beach, California. The Latin champion 2004 will be one of the competitors. Martinez will be showing all his surfing in that important competition of the WQS tour in the traditional Californian breaker that is very well known for the surfer. As for the ALAS tour his next performance will be in Panama on April from the 13th to the 15th.
After the fourth stop of the ALAS tour (Surf Latin American Association), Magnum is on the fourth place on the ranking with 12050 points and three days of competition, since he didn't compete in the Chilean section. The charismatic athlete said to Surfpress that he was very pleased with his sport achievements and he also told Surfpress that he will be using new surfboards (Sharp Eye) from now on.
Magnum Martinez is sponsored by: Quiksilver - Reef - Spy - Xtrak - Lokbox- Vestal- Sambazon - Samoa.
THE NEW ELECTED BOARD FOR THE FEDERACIÓN ESPAÑOLA DE SURF (FES) President Carlos García Gómez Vice President Bruno Alabau Canoa Secretary Javier Porta Rivero Technical Director Jorge Cabrera Gutiérrez Manager Antonio Obenza Fernández Assistant Manager Estitxu Estremo Sáez de Ugarte
5. Intenational News
DEATH OF ALAIN DANET, IOC HONOUR MEMBER It is with great sadness that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) must inform of the death of Alain Danet, an IOC honour member since 2000, and a member of the Press Commission since 1992. Born in 1931 in Paris, Mr. Danet started his career as a lawyer, before managing several departments, including that of commercial services, at Le Figaro.
President of the Academie des Sports since 1991, Mr. Danet worked actively to create the European Olympic Committees (EOC) in 1968, and was a member of the Executive Committee of this association from 1993 to 1997. From 1995 onwards, he was also an advisor to the President of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC).
Within the French National Olympic Committee (CNOSF), he was a member of the Administration Board from 1961 to 1966, Secretary General in 1961, Treasurer in 1969 and Vice-President in 1972. He was Chef de Mission at the Olympic Games from 1964 to 1980. A former player, he was President of the French Hockey Federation from 1960 to 1964, and from 1972 to 1980, and then President of the European Hockey Federation from 1974 to 2003.
A great ambassador of French sport, Mr. Danet was head of the ministerial Mission to promote France’s international image through sport from 1995 to 1997. He was made a Commander of the Legion of Honour in 2003, a Commander of the National Order of Merit in 1988, and a Chevalier of the Order of Academic Palms in 1990.
The IOC expresses its deepest sympathy to Mr. Danet’s family. For further information, please call the IOC Communications Department on +41 21 621 6111, or go to the IOC website, www.olympic.org
GAISF IN MOURNING Matti Salmenkyla (FIN), Honorary Secretary General of the International Press Association (AIPS), passed away on 9 February after a long illness. Elected to the Executive Committee in 1977, he was AIPS General Secretary for 2 terms (1993 to 1997 and 1997 to 2001). He was AIPS Delegate for the Olympic Games since 1984 in Sarajevo, and until 1986 was a Member of the IOC Press Commission sub-committee. GAISF extends its deepest sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues.
SPORTACCORD 2006 - 3-7 April, Seoul (KOR) GAISF meetings at SportAccord - The GAISF Council meeting will be held on Monday, 3 April. The GAISF Council will also meet with the IOC Executive Board on 5 April.
The GAISF Media Workshops will take place this year in the frame of the Conference Programme on 5 and 6 April. The themes are devoted to Accreditation and Press and the Role of an IF Media Head Officer. The GAISF Statutory General Assembly will conclude our SportAccord event on Friday, 7 April.
The SportAccord Opening Ceremony will take place on 3 April from 18.45 to 19.45 at the COEX Convention Center. It will be followed by a Dinner hosted by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea for the delegates of ANOC, IOC & SportAccord at 20.00 at the COEX Convention Center. There will be a shuttle service from the GRAND InterContinental to the COEX Convention Center.
The Conferences & Workshops will take place on 5 and 6 April and will be devoted to two main themes:
1. Staging a Successful Major Event Bidding Cities - Strategies for Success in the International Event Market Facilities/Venues Development - Planning Permanent & Temporary Facilities Knowledge Transfer - How Host Cities Can Learn from One Another Staffing - Building a Winning Sports Event Team Marketing - Increasing the Awareness & Impact of Your Event
2. Financing and Promoting a Sport New Media - Getting the Most from New Technologies I: Mobile Telephony New Media - Getting the Most from New Technologies II: TV & Broadband Sponsorship - How to Deliver More Value to Sponsors Sponsorship - Deal-Making Workshop Marketing/CRM - Communicating Profitability with Sports Customers and Participants
The Exhibition will also take place at the Grand InterContinental Hotel on 5 and 6 April. For further information on the conferences, speakers and exhibition, please visit our website www.sportaccord.com.
Secretariat :Ms. Minyoung KIM - Tel: 82-2-6000-8186 Fax: 82-2-6000-1306 E-mail: minish@coex.co.kr - COEX convention team, World Trade Center, Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 135-731, Korea
6. Environmental News
FISHOS SURF BREAK THREATENED BY PLANS TO BUILD ROCK WALL Surfing to loose another valuable break - 8 March, 2006 - - The Surfrider Foundation has slammed plans to build a rock wall at Fishermans Beach in Torquay saying the proposed project will destroy a popular surf break. Fishos is a unique sand bottom point break that works on big swells and SW winds, and it is the place to surf when the whole coast is blown out.
It is particularly popular with local grommets who are not experienced enough to surf Torquays famous reef breaks. Surfing Fishos is considered a right of passage for young Torquay surfers. When you speak to older surfers, they regularly recall surfing Fishos during their grommet days. Not only is the wave unique, it also has cultural significance in a town built on surfing said Iain Lygo President of the Surf Coast Surfrider Foundation.
Surfrider are concerned a break wall will have a devastating effect on Torquays beaches north of Point Danger. Every time break walls are built there are major consequences to our coastal environment. The planned break wall will destroy Fishos and have a major impact on Torquay Front Beach and Whites Beach. said Mr Lygo.
The proposed site of the break wall has significant sand banks and the Surfrider Foundation is concerned that a break wall will prevent natural sand movements. When walls are built into the ocean and natural sand flows are interrupted, you see beaches disappear while others get huge build ups. These proposals always create erosion problems which are difficult and expensive to fix said Mr Lygo.
The Surfrider Foundation is concerned that ratepayers will be forced to pay for the environmental damage caused by the rock wall, and ongoing dredging costs will need to be paid for by those who dont use the facility. The Surfrider Foundation is also trying to stop a break wall at Bastion Point in Mallacoota.
If both these break walls are built we will see two surf spots destroyed forever, because the boating fraternity want to change the coastline solely for their own benefit. Why should boat owners have more rights than surfers? said Mr Lygo. Surfrider are drawing a line in the sand on this issue.
Surfrider are also concerned that the proposal will see more fishing craft going out to sea in marginal weather and surf conditions. The project is environmentally and culturally inappropriate. It will have negative consequences when it comes to boating safety, and the ratepayers will be paying for something they dont want and wont use said Mr Lygo.
For more information please call Iain Lygo on 0437745874 or John Foss on 0408386812 www.surfrider.org
7. Surfaid International and Liquid Nation Ball
For the second year in a row, Liquid Nation, an event created by Santiago Aguerre, raised over $240,000 for Surf Aid International, the nonprofit humanitarian aid organization that works to improve the health of people living in isolated surfing regions of the world.
This fundraiser event, attended by the VIPs of the surfing world, including world champions Lisa Andersen, Sofia Mulanovich, Andy Irons, Peter Towned, Shaun Tomson, featured a live auction in which boards from those surfers and a balsa tow in from Laird Hamilton helped raised over $130,000 in 30 minutes.
The rest of the funds came from ticket sales (over 450 people attended) and sponsors. The Liquid Nation Ball was attended by the leaders of the surfing world from South and North America, Europe, Australia and Africa. The next event, Liquid Nation Ball 3 will be held on the second night of the ASR Tradeshow, September 9th, 2006. As in years 2004 and 2005, ISA President Fernando Aguerre, will be the auctioneer.
The 2006 event will benefit SurfAid and another group of humanitarian organizations run by surfers. For more information on Liquid Nation 2, please log in www.surfaidinternational.org For more information on Liquid Nation 3, please contact Sean@SIMA.com
8. Contact the ISA
International Surfing Association 5580 La Jolla Blvd. #145 ◦ La Jolla, California 92037 USA Tel: 858-551-5292, Fax: 858-551-5290 surf@isasurf.org Website: www.isasurf.org
If you are disappointed that there is no news from your country, send your news via email to the ISA Head Office (surf@isasurf.org) and it will be included in the next newsletter.
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