Miami family firepower

Henwood clan driving underdogs in IRB series

MIAMI Beach’s sibling strength is hoping to repeat last weekend’s success during Round 3 of Surf Life Saving Queensland’s Ocean Roar Inflatable Rescue Boat Series today at Coolum Beach.

While Kurrawa holds a dominant lead following Round 2 of Ocean Roar, it was Miami Beach that surprised the traditional IRB powerhouses last weekend, securing victory in three events to finish in second. The outing also elevated the club to fifth on the overall leaderboard. Miami Beach IRB captain Isaac Henwood said the team’s goal was to simply have fun.

“We honestly don’t expect that much. We go out there to have fun and the results are good when they come through,” he said.

The Henwood brothers played a key role in the club’s Round 2 victories, with Zachary and Oliver Henwood claiming gold in the Open Male Surf Rescue and Open Male Mass Rescue, accompanied by Jordana Fair and Samuel Call.

Zachary and Oliver teamed up with their brothers Isaac and Harrison Henwood, along with Benjamin Fields and Samuel Call, to also take out the Open Male Teams Rescue.

Despite the family’s role in the club’s success, Isaac stressed it was a team effort.

“We are only as good as each other – everyone plays a big part, from our drivers, crew and patients, to the support crew on the beach,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to a couple of waves this weekend and excited for a bit of swell. I’m hoping we have another good carnival but I’m sure it will be a great weekend regardless.”

SLSQ sports event manager Stuart Hogben said there had been some exceptional performances in the first two rounds of Ocean Roar and it was time for competitors to set the bar even higher at Coolum.

“Our top competitors really will need to bring their all to defend their positions,” he said.

“Sunshine Coast’s Alex Headlands and Kawana Waters are also in with a chance.”