Will it be lucky No.7 for Marrawah Jy
What is considered the most prestigious and one of the longest-running surfing competitions in Tasmania is back on again this Easter in a small, remote town.
Now in its 49th year, the Rip Curl West Coast Classic is taking place at Marrawah from March 29 to April 1.
Jy Johannesen has won the event six times and is hoping to go one better this year.
“As far as surfing contests go, it’s definitely the most prestigious and obviously longest-running contest,” Johannesen said.
“I remember as a kid, there was a perpetual trophy at the Marrawah Tavern, and it meant something to have your name on it.
“The people that had their names on there were guys you’d look up to when you were a lot younger.”
Surfing Tasmania events director, and Jy’s brother, Luke Johannesen said more than 100 people would compete in the Rip Curl West Coast Classic, and he expected a crowd of between 200 and 300.
“This particular event is the second oldest amateur event run in Australia,” Mr Johannesen said.
“The Marrawah community basically lives for this weekend. The whole community supports and turns out for the event.
“It’s got a perpetual trophy, and it’s pretty much the event that you want to win.”
Jy also said the event had significance for the region.
“It’s great for the economy, and hopefully, this year, with it running for four days, it might even be a bit more of a cash injection.
“I imagine it would be pretty quiet going in the middle of winter, not many people around.
“For the businesses, the event would probably be a big part of their livelihood.”