The 2019 Taj’s Small Fries surf competition kicks off this Friday in the world famous waves of Yallingup.
In its 14th consecutive year it provides the opportunity for aspiring young grommets from all over the world to challenge themselves in the wave rich South West.
More than 100 riders will take to the surf until Sunday with everyone chasing the winner’s trophies in separate age divisions.
Taj Burrow’s signature event has been a major success over the years. The Yallingup surfing legend is welcoming to all grommets at his surf breaks and is excited to see the skill levels improve every year.
Burrow’s said each year he looked forward to seeing who was ripping and what talent Australia was producing.
“I get really excited when Billabong brings over children who have never been to the South West before, it is really fun showing them around my home breaks and spots they may have seen in the movies,” he said.
“I am really looking forward to hosting a bunch of little maniacs for the 14th year, which is just incredible.”
Since it’s beginning in 2006, the major event has become a stepping stone for many of the country's best young guns, acting as a spring board to their professional careers.
Past winners included Jack Robinson, Kael Walsh, Mikaela Greene, Felicity Palmateer, Josh and Emma Cattlin.
The yearly contest is supported by the City of Busselton, with mayor Grant Henley said they were exceptionally proud of the region’s surfing heritage and culture.
“Taj Burrow's Small Fries is a signature junior event integral in developing young talent and enabling local children to mix it with some of the best young champions in what can only be described as a world-class surfing arena,” he said.
“Held at the city’s iconic Yallingup beach, we are proud to again be sponsoring the event and I wish everyone involved the very best.”
There will be no shortage of fun and interactive opportunities for competitors and families to enjoy.
Competitors will get the to rub shoulders with Taj at the opening ceremony and registrations on Thursday, before the Yallingup Boardriders host the launch party at Yallingup Maze.
A family barbecue and movie night will be held on Friday and the event presentations on Sunday afternoon.
Forecast: A small one metre swell and southerly winds on Thursday. Friday brings good offshore conditions with SE winds and a rising 1.6m swell.
Saturday has morning offshore winds and a solid 1.7m groundswell, while Sunday rises to a 2m+ swell and SSE winds.
Hotspot: Yallingup main break and Shallows.