Fallen surfing buddies honoured in style

ALKANTSTRAND was the setting last Saturday for a memorial surfing competition dedicated to the many board riders and administrators of the sport who have passed on since the official founding of the Zululand (now uThungulu) association in 1985.

The day had a special, solemn significance for scores of family members and friends who arrived to witness the newly-built memorial deck being officially opened.

This after the 47 names of late members of the surfing fraternity were read out and a prayer of dedication was shared.

‘Those who enjoy the wonderful gift nature has given us have become a real family, and we share each other’s joy and pain,’ said M/C, veteran surfer Fred le Roux who, along with John Cawood, arranged the tribute event.

‘This is a time to remember with thanksgiving the many waves we rode together with those who are no longer with us.

‘They passed away from various causes, including Covid; and we especially remember Mark Trollip who collapsed right here where we are standing.

‘This is a way of keeping their names alive. Their families can come down any time and spend a moment to honour their loved ones.’

Surfers and others present formed a circle of remembrance on the shore before a fleet of board riders paddled out for a repeat circle beyond the backline, the participants laying flowers, palm leaves and wreaths on the water.

Then it was time for the Memorial Surf Compo as close to 60 participants in all age groups contested numerous categories.

Competition results:

• James Leigh - Open Shortboard

Champion

• Liam de Villiers - Open Best Move

• Vladimir Tokai - U/19 Shortboard Champion

• Tristan Friedrichs - U/19 Bodyboarding Champion

• Clint Dreyer - O/35 Shortboard Champion

• Rob Moore-Boyle - O/35 Best Move Winner

• Quinten Holzhausen - O/35 Bodyboarding Champion

• Piesang van Huizen - O/35 Longboard Champion

• Sarah Horlock - Open Longboard Champion

• Jordy Cawood - Grom Champion

• Louwrens Badenhorst won the lucky draw Safari surfboard prize sponsored by Llewellyn Wepener

Local surfing veterans Ray Harris and Fred le Roux at the cutting of the ribbon to officially open the memorial deck

The formalities over, the surfing got under way and, with Liam de Villiers heading left and Danileigh Barnes going right, a crunching collision was narrowly avoided

Boardriders headed to the backline for the traditional memorial circle and splashing of the water to honour their fallen comrades

Liam de Villiers pulled off the best move of the day