The Byron Bay Surf Club’s masters set a strong example for the nippers to follow during the recent surf life saving country championships held at Cudgen.
The club had members ranging in age from six years to 76 competing.
‘While Byron Bay Surf Club is proud of its third place overall, the relationships between the club members, no matter what age, or what skill level, is what they are most proud of,’ publicity officer Kirsty Pockley said.
Club president Paul Pattison lead the way by showing podium finishes are nothing without friendship and lifelong bonds.
Paul brought home gold medals and the McCabe brothers were unstoppable, teaming together to bring home a selection of silverware.
The Byron Bay ski paddling results were replicated from the 1990s with names like Mike McCabe, Greg McCabe, Dan McCabe, Dean Rutgerson, Kurt Tutt, Karen Irwin and Jo Kay appearing repeatedly.
The younger lads, Bradley Kay and Shaun Sewell teaming with veteran ski paddler Kurt Tutt finished third in the Open ski relay.
Jasper Alford, Max Anderson and Beau Carter showed the depth of talent across all ages in the club.
Nippers
The female nippers also had the opportunity to follow the strong lead of the senior female competitors.
Jo Kay, Heli Murray, Karen Irwin and Mandy Montalbetti all walked away with individual and team medals.
‘The nipper team is lead by the very humble and disciplined sportswoman Suki Alford. Suki won gold in the U/14s swim, board, ironwoman and 2km run,’ Kirsty said.
‘Suki, along with her U/14 peers completed her Surf Rescue Certificate this year and is committed to her role as a volunteer lifesaver on the beach.
‘The widespread success of the girls is a great reflection of the committed family-friendly culture that exists within the Byron Bay Surf Club, enabling girls to maintain an active, healthy, community-minded lifestyle from the age of six years,’ she said.
The Byron Bay Surf Club will host the Far North Coast Branch titles across February 22–23. Over 50 female competitors are expected to attend the event.
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