Surfing England 2023 Junior Surf Series Stop 3

Dramatic Weather Leads to Thrilling Contest in Bude

After a week filled with constantly changing forecasts, Surfing England officials, along with host club Bude Wave Riders, made the call on Friday to go ahead with the third stop of the junior surf series on Sunday, October 22nd at Widemouth Bay in Bude.

Thursday’s forecast showed waves potentially too big for the under 12 and under 14 competitors. However, the prediction improved by Friday, allowing the green light for the event. Bude Wave Riders, our largest joint membership club with incredible local support, stepped up to make it an incredibly smooth contest.

After the all-important safety briefing, the heats kicked off with clean lines and contestable surf in the 3-4 foot range – perfect for showcasing the talents of the groms.  The under 12 girls kicked things off, impressing everyone with their determination and skill. The under 14 boys and girls followed, battling the current to put on an impressive display.

The judges, led by head judge Ester Spears, scrutinized the performances to determine who would make the finals. A special shoutout to Martin, Neil and Simon for their invaluable assistance in keeping things running smoothly. (nobody talks about judges like they don’t big up creaives at this point in a pr release, Thanks and mentions unless special should be at the bottom)

As the day progressed, the under 12 boys and girls delivered a thrilling showcase of skills before the older competitors took over for an intense battle in the late afternoon glare.

In the end Harvey Waters and Willow Craxton defended their leads to claim the under 12 boys and girls victories respectively. The under 14 boys title went to Reuben Wakely, while Harlyn Sykes clinched the under 14 girls honours.

Martin Reay from Bude Wave Riders said “It was great to invite the U.K.’s finest frothers to Bude to showcase their shredding skills at Widemouth Bay. With challenging conditions each and every surfer gave their very best to impress the judges with some epic 8 point rides and even a “buzzer beater” score in the dying seconds of the last Final of the day. The Stoke was high all day and as a club we are so grateful for all the club volunteers for their help in organising and running such a successful event.”

Contest Director Phil Williams said, “A massive thanks to our partners Eola, Animal and RYD Brand for their continued support of the series. Animal ambassador Emily Currie put on an impromptu pop up contest for prizes from Animal. There was also an exciting treasure hunt courtesy of RYD, adding to the electric atmosphere.”

“Bude Wave Riders were incredible hosts and the team of officials and volunteers made this a smoothly run and hugely successful event. The determination and talent displayed by all the young surfers was truly inspiring. We can’t wait for the day of champions this Tuesday!” he added.

Results:

U14 Girls

1 Harlyn Sykes 2 Sunny Ingram 3 Willow Smith 4 Bethan Davies

U14 Boys

1 Reuben Wakely 2 Dylan Roose 3  Sebastian Connolly 4 Charlie Wingfield

U12 Girls

1 Willow Craxton 2 Kira Connolly 3 Betsie Reay 4 Eva Isserlis

U12 Boys

1 Harvey Waters 2 Samson Houghton 3 Bobby Wilkinson 4 Brody Reay

The 2023 series promises to be the biggest and best yet for the development of junior surfing talent across England. We eagerly anticipate the upcoming events!