Prizes on offer in new surf format

TASMANIA’S best lifesavers will go head to head for prizes and bragging rights as part of a new Tasmania Surf League that will launch this weekend.

Surf Life Saving Tasmania has announced positive changes to the format of its surf sports competition for this summer, with the newly formulated TSL loosely based on the successful formula of the national Ocean6 competition.

It will link the four traditional statewide carnivals in a four event series, culminating in clubs, teams and individuals pursuing the title of Tasmanian Surf League champion.

Reigning Nutri-Grain Ironman Series champion Matt Bevilacqua, now based on the Gold Coast, has joined the new competition as an ambassador and is glowing in his assessment of the new series.

“I wish this concept was introduced when I was a kid growing up and racing in Tassie. I can’t wait to see the next batch of high level Tassie surf athletes contesting some National titles and National level competitions as the fruits of this Tasmanian Surf League,” he said.

Surf Life Saving Tasmania chief executive Tony van den Enden was equally positive about the new competition.

“SLST’s Surf Sports Committee has done an excellent job in formulating this exciting new concept, which I am sure will create enthusiasm with our members and stimulate interest in the wider community.

“Surf Sports in surf life saving helps save lives, build healthy and safe communities and create great Australians.”

Prize money is up for grabs for series winners in open and under-19 and the metro and country club winners.

The League kicks off in Burnie this Sunday, followed by rounds at Clifton Beach (January 5), Ulverstone (January 19), and Carlton Park (February 10).