THE Bird Rock Memorial Surf Classic served up another memorable weekend – on shore as well as off.
Committee spokesperson Geoff Branch said around 50 surfers competed in the retro divisions on Friday and 140 in the main competition on the Saturday and Sunday, with Chris Davidson (South West Rocks) taking out the open division from Mitch Sykes (Bonny Hills), Wayne Morrison (Port Macquarie) and Matt Gallagher (Bonny Hills).
Young Port Macquarie surfer Jack Clarke won the award for the overall surfer of the comp.
Mr Branch said Friday at Middle Rock waves were only two to three feet, but the Saturday and Sunday competition was staged at Lighthouse beach, where waves up to four foot.
Competition was keen, with only a handful of points separating the top competitors in most divisions.
The Friday evening memorial service on the Town Beach headland was one of the highlights for him personally.
“It would have to be the biggest yet. Around 60 or 70 people attended, and Christian Surfers who ran the service this year had placed lanterns all around,” Mr Branch said.
“Members of the families who have lost someone recently spoke about their loss and how much they appreciated the support from the surfing community and friends.”
He said this year’s event, the 34th was an unqualified success, but organisers were discussing adding to the list of events next year with a skins event for pro or ex-pro surfers and an expressions session for children under 10.
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