Some of the world’s best grommet surfers will return to Lennox Head on Friday to compete in one of the premier junior events on the calendar, The Skullcandy Oz Grom Open presented by Vissla.
Organisers are expecting that this year’s event, which will run throughout the weekend, will feature one of the strongest line-ups of surfers from the age groups of 12s to Pro Junior age (18-and-under).
A full international field is expected, with surfers coming from as far away as Hawaii and Japan.
Lennox Head surfer Mikey McDonagh, who was the 2015 Skullcandy Oz Grom Open 14 Boys Champion, said he was looking forward to defending his title on home turf.
‘Taking out my division in the Skullcandy event last year was one of the highlights of my career so far,’ McDonagh said.
‘Having one of the best junior events on my doorstep and the local support on the beach is one of those moments I’ll remember forever. Hopefully I can get another decent result this year.’
In addition, this year Vissla has joined forces to present the 2016 event, inking a long-term deal with event organisers.
John Mossop from Vissla spokesman John Mossop said the event provided a window into the future of surfing.
‘It is also the one event that competitors and their families love attending, so we at Vissla feel privileged to be involved,’ he said.
David Chegwyn from Skullcandy said it was ‘really cool’ to be associated with the Le Ba Boardriders in bringing a top class junior surfing event to the area.
‘It is amazing to see the depth of talent on display and we are really pleased to be involved for our fifth year,’ Mr Chegwin said.
‘The volunteers and local community make this event really special. Let’s hope the waves are pumping.’
Ballina mayor David Wright said Ballina Shire Council was extremely proud to be a major sponsor of the 2016 Skullcandy OZ Grom Open.
‘The event is broadcast live around the world and this year will have the added feature of drone cameras to add to the spectacular action,’ Cr Wright said.
‘It’s no wonder the event is rated as the best junior competition in the world.’
Some of the world’s most skilled grommet surfers could leave the rest in their wake at Lennox Head on Friday in The Skullcandy Oz Grom Open presented by Vissla.