NEXT GEN OF GREAT AUSSIES
SIMON Harris was 15 when he competed at his first Aussies – now he’s ushering through the next generation of beach flags competitors with Surfers Paradise’s Jett Milford-Ferguson showing all the markings of a future champion.
In his heyday, there was no one greater than Harris when it came to the beach flags at the national titles.
Known for his fiery, competitive nature, Harris dominated the Aussies beach flags for close to two decades, winning more gold medals in his
pet event then anyone else before him.
But now he’ll be on the sidelines while he watches his protege Milford-Ferguson, 15, walk in his shoes.
The rising star is set to line up at his first Australian surf lifesaving youth championships which kick off on Friday on the Sunshine Coast.
Mooloolaba Beach will host to the beach events, the exact beach where Harris won his 11th Australian beach flags title in 2016.
“I retired at Mooloolaba in 2016 and there were so many
people there watching – the elevation and amphitheatre makes a great spectacle for the beach events,” Harris said.
“It was probably my favourite Aussies win. Jett’s really going to love the atmosphere and I’m looking forward to seeing him race.
“He’s probably the best I’ve seen and could be the best ever if he puts his mind to it.”
For Milford-Ferguson, the prestige of the Aussies is something he’s looking forward to being part of.
“Aussies is what everyone talks about; it’s the top event
for our sport and I think it’s really special because everyone from around Australia comes together to try to achieve one common goal – an Australian title,” MilfordFerguson said.
“I’ve always said that if you can believe it, you can win it – you’ve got to have some confidence in yourself,” he said.
Hailing from the Surfers Paradise club, MilfordFerguson understands the surf sports icons he is surrounded by day in and day out.
“I’m so privileged to have Simon as a coach; he’s arguably
the greatest of all time in beach flags and has won multiple national and international titles,” he said.
“But there’s also some other legends around our club like Trevor Hendy, Ali Day and Courtney Hancock.
“I’d love to be one of them one day and to be known as a club legend.
“To be surrounded by greatness every day is such a privilege and one that I’m always grateful for.”
The Australian surf lifesaving championships will run until April 24.