Surf boat action returns to Sydney’s Northern Beaches tomorrow with the 2018 Best of the Best Interbranch Championships.
Originally slated to be held at North Narrabeen a forecast of strong surf conditions has forced the hand of the organising committee with the decision made to relocate the racing to Collaroy.
The 2018 Championships will feature races in the U19, 23, Reserve, and Open Divisions as well as the Surf Boat Relay.
All events will feature both male and female races, and with many of the competitors coming off a strong campaign at the recent State Championship it promises to be an exciting weekend of racing.
Seven branches have nominated for the event with Sydney Northern Beaches, Sydney, and the Central Coast fielding crews in all divisions.
Other branches have taken advantage of the drafting rule which allows for more competition in the quest for overall honours.
Pleasingly for organisers three country teams will make the trip.
North Coast will be represented in the U23 Female Race by a strong team from Minnie Water-Wooli, while Moruya (U19 Male), and Broulee Surfers (Reserve Male) will be flying the flag for the Far South Coast.
NSW Surf Sports Manager Rob Pidgeon is confident of a great day of racing and is crossing his fingers that the weather gods remain on his side.
“It’s a great chance for spectators to see some of the best surf boat crews in the state race ahead of the Australian Titles, and hopefully the weather conditions will cooperate,” said Rob Pidgeon.
“There is a strong tradition of surf boat racing in NSW and we’re very much looking forward to a fantastic day of racing. On behalf of Surf Life Saving I’d like to wish all our competitors and officials the very best of luck.”
The 2018 NSW Surf Boat Interbranch Championships takes place at Collaroy Beach on Saturday 24 March. Racing gets underway from 8:30am
Friday 23 March 2018