December 3 - 9, 2017: Issue 340

Pittwater High’s Inaugural Surfing Cup

Pittwater High’s Inaugural Surfing Cup

The Last day of term 3 saw the running of the Pittwater High Inaugural Surfing Cup….and what a terrific day it was with over 30 students and 4 staff radiating an abundance of joy and pure stoke! Talk about finishing the term on a high. The conditions were perfect with a very contestable 2-3ft swell, light offshores and a balmy 26 degrees, all wrapped in a blanket of sunshine that had competitors and judges shaking their heads in disbelief at Pittwater High’s good karmic fortune. You could not have asked for better conditions. A bevy of local sponsors came on board to support the initiative in the best show of community support I’ve witnessed in 25yrs as an educator.

I can’t thank Jeff Atkinson from Mona Vale Boardriders enough for the use of all their competition equipment and Domino’s Mona Vale for throwing the kids a surprise lunch. Numerous companies all chipped in including the On-Board store and FCS with prize packs, Wicks Collaroy with gift Vouchers, Blu-eye Sunglasses with eyewear, O’Neill with a box of surf accessories and Maurizio from MG Surfboards for offering three custom boards at cost price. Myer even sponsored the Tag Team Event with each participant on the winning team taking home a generous gift voucher!

The support from the school community was also very much appreciated. Of note the head teachers of English, TAS and PDHPE who graciously released Ben Bryant, Carolyn Hayes and Mark Dailhou respectively to cover the judging and water safety. Ben, Carolyn and Mark’s input and efforts on the day were not only tireless but greatly appreciated by all! Maris Ludimanis, our guest judge as well as various parents and supporters who attended to lend a hand where possible….to each and all a very big Thank You!

The event was such a huge success that we’re hoping to run two next year to provide not only a platform for the kids to gain valuable competitive surfing experience but to also foster ongoing community spirit and positive local partnerships.

Well done to all who competed with special congratulations to the individual winners:
Chloe Blount – All Age Girls Champion
Wilson Hall – Junior Boys Champion
Pat Gilliland – Open Boys Champion

By Daniel Burton
Surfing Coordinator   

Million-dollar view from the judging marquee


The girls happily swapping books and pens for wetsuits and boards


Adam Price and his patented layback snap


Tom Kinsela’s closeout gouge in the pocket


Claudia Haworth with a gutsy re-entry to lip-line floater


Callum Bowden driving down the line


Noah Wallis smoothly carved his way to 2nd place in the Open Boys Final


Matt Simon fans his rivals 


Pat Gilliland takes flight on his way to victory in the Open Boys Final
With thanks to generous support of these sponsors