Broulee Surfers SLSC finished the competition in a highly credible 24th place overall ahead of a number of more-fancied opponents including last year’s hosts South West Rocks.
This was thanks to Darren Drewsen who not only won gold in the 40-49 Male Beach Flags and Beach Sprint but in an impressive display of athleticism took out the Open Male Beach Flags to seal his third title of the competition.
Young gun Luke Drewsen showed he is one to watch with an impressive Beach Sprint in the U10 to finish with a silver medal.
Narooma’s Elli Beecham continued her steady progression on the sand by successfully defending her Beach Flag title as she powered through to take the gold medal in the U15 division.
“I was so proud to win the under 15 flags, and it was great to represent Narooma as the most southern part of the state. I was the only cap from my club. I love the fact that we don’t have any coaches but that I still stood my ground with all the top athletes and won a medal,” said Beecham after her race.
“This was my sixth Country Championships. I love the event because it’s so different to State Champs but is a great lead-up event with less pressure and is good fun.”
Elli was on track for a medal in the Sprint as well but an untimely slip ended that dream.
Nevertheless she will head into future carnivals confident in her form and technique that will hold her in great stead for the challenges ahead.
NSW Surf Sports Manager Rob Pidgeon said it was a quality carnival that highlighted the very best of surf sport competition.
“I would like to acknowledge all the athletes, officials and supporters for an outstanding weekend of racing conducted in the true spirit of Surf Life Saving.
“Cudgen Headland were outstanding hosts and we certainly enjoyed our time at beautiful Kingscliff Beach,” he said.
Top Ten Overall Pointscore
- Cudgen Headland SLSC 1128
- Byron Bay SLSC 687
- Warilla Barrack Point SLSC 479
- Lennox Head - Alstonville SLSC 317
- Sawtell SLSC 300
- Port Macquarie SLSC 287
- Tacking Point SLSC 245
- Yamba SLSC 212
- Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore SLSC 171
- Cabarita Beach SLSC 163
Thursday 7 February 2019