The 30th annual Evans Head Malibu Classic was run last weekend with clean one metre-plus waves on offer right across the four days of competition.
‘We’ve had perfect conditions for surfing with the tide, wind and waves perfect for long boards. The waves are breaking both ways too,’ said Matt Moyle, secretary of the Evans Head Malibu Club.
All up the event attracted 120 competitors, including a big increase in female participation. Competitors across 13 different divisions ranged in age from six to 76 years.
‘It’s a big weekend for Evans in the middle of school holidays. It all comes together,’ he said.
The four-day format included divisions from the eight-footers (highly manoeuverable) plus Old Mal (using pre-1968 boards) and loggers – a new wave of stylish young surfers who have sparked a revival of traditional boardriding.
The club recently lost its founding member, Harry Hann, and a paddle out was held in his memory on Saturday afternoon.
Winners
Open 9ft Men, Ben Williams. Open 8ft, Nat Smith. Open Women, Emma Perrier. Over 40 Men, Ben Matley. Over 40 Women, Sarra Robertson. Over 50s Men, Robb Cribb. Over 60s Men, Mike Pimm. Over 70s Men, Eric Walker. Under 40s Logs, Keenan Roxburgh. Old Mal, Isaac Fields. Junior Boys, Lenix Currie. Junior Girls, Mia Waite.
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