Held every year since 2008, the surf contest has fast become a favourite event on the local and national surfing calendar. In a spirit of love and fun through giving, the Ross Taylor Surf Contest is held in memory of local, well-loved surfer Ross Taylor who passed away from cancer, to raise much needed funds for Hospice every year.
This year, the contest was supported by over 213 individual surfers across five main divisions: short-board, longboard, stand-up paddle board (flat water and surf), kneelos and development.
“This is my favourite weekend of the year, when so many people come together, not only to support a fantastic cause, but to enjoy being together, surfing and to celebrate the life of an incredible friend and surfer.” said Brian Salter, contest director and friend of Ross Taylor. This year the contest saw a huge growth in the development section and a record number of family entries with mum, dad and all the kids surfing in the various divisions, further proving that this is an ideal event for the whole family.
The contest concert, held on the Saturday night, included performances by local schools, professional musicians and bands as well as a hugely successful auction in which over R20 000 was raised.
“The most heart-warming part of this whole event is the incredible donations and support, we receive from very generous individuals who over the weekend just come forward to donate, even if they are not involved in the actual surfing” says Nicky Goodall, who has worked on the event for five years. “A huge thank you goes to the smooth organising and professional event team of Nature Sport Company who was integral in creating another fantastic event this year.” added Goodall.
A special mention was also made of the pancake-making team who was on top form and worked tirelessly throughout the weekend to provide delicious food for everyone, The organisers are also grateful to the volunteer judges who gave up their weekend to keep the scores coming in.
Despite the great weather, on the first two days, surfing conditions were not ideal. However, several surfers managed to find waves to surf and put on a show for everyone who came to support, resulting in a great contest and weekend for all. The winners of the two most contested divisions, the Men’s and Ladies' Open, were Johan Kriek and Faye Zoetmulder respectively.
“The success of the event lies in the generosity of the community, and once again the community came to the party. We are so honoured to have been a part of this fantastic event and look forward to many more years of surfing, friendship and family fun in the future Ross Taylor Surf Contests.” said Daron Smit, event director of Nature Sport Company.
Surfer girls galore! From left: Rentia Latola, Marche Uithaler, Ihesha Gelderblom, Tiffany Roelfse Photo: Elle
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