Saturday saw the opening event of the South West Bodyboard Club 2017 season in in pumping 3 to 4ft conditions at Gas Beachies near Boodjidup.
According to event organisers, they could not have asked for more after making the call to postpone the week prior due to the “XXL swell” that recently hit the South-West.
Although Margaret River is renowned for big waves, the family-friendly club said they were determined to provide an opportunity for all competitors to test their skills.
More than 60 members in an age range stretching from under 10 “supergroms” through to veteran riders braved the early morning chill and put on a show, with perfect beach break barrels and bowls running right through the day, producing some big scoring rides.
Among the crowd was local bodyboarding legend and 2017 SWBC Secretary, Ryan Hardy.
Over the last few years Hardy has been busy grooming a local group of Margaret River grommets and this was their first event to show their famous coach how the hard work had paid off.
“They did not disappoint,” Hardy said of his young charges.
"I'm so impressed with how they have developed.
“They have been so pumped to hit the water and compete and we even had three of the under 14's step up and make it right through to the under 18's final.
“Plus these kids are only like 11 and 12 years old, the talent is incredible.”
In keeping with the club’s family spirit, it was Mums and Dads that made the day, cheering on their little champions, sharing BBQ duties and sticking it out in the sun, wind and rain until day's end.
After multiple rounds and some impressive riding from all divisions, winners were announced with Margaret River's Max McGregor taking out the under 14's final, Bunbury's Kyle Eastcott the under 18's and solo women's competitor Rio Clarke enjoying a final all to herself.
New Club President Michael Reid managed to find time to take out the Over 30s Vets division, however was most proud of his son Hayden, who at only 5 years of age was the clubs first Under 10's Supergrom division winner.
In the big boys competition, it was hard to stop the onslaught of Ryan Hardy who took home the bacon in both the Open Dropknee and Open Men's divisions.
However it was not all about the heat winners and when the dust settled, special mention awards were presented to Reid Jones for the best barrel of the day and Lee Wilson for best manoeuvre.
In true club spirit, Ryan Hardy donated his winning prizes to two young riders who stood out on the day for both dedication and “pure froth”.
Ben Hall must have spent in excess of 8 hours in the water, bashing through the shore break and really showing the crowd just what bodyboarding is all about – the fun of the sport.
Holden Ross received a special mention for pushing his body to the limits and competing right to the end and virtually to the point of collapse.
Round 2 of South West Bodyboard Club is set for June in Bunbury.
The club’s committee is working towards the rest of the season and urged locals to join the group and enjoy the fun at their regular events.
“The club would like to thank all of its sponsors, members and local parents and families for a great day of fun and waves and we look forward to a strong 2017 season.”
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/southwestbodyboardclub/
