IrishSUP Surf Classic
The 4th annual IRISHSUP SURF CLASSIC took place two weeks ago in the beautiful surf county of Sligo. This SUP Surf event has become the premier event of the UK and Irish SUP Surf scene, and that was evident to see with surfers from Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and the republic of Ireland in attendance.
The event provides a variety of categories for the suppers to participate in. There is a ladies, first timers, sub 10ft, 10ft plus and a masters category on offer. This year saw 83 entries for this two-day event.
Conditions for the competition suited the event being run at a beach called Trá BuÍ, just around the corner from our weekend base of the Beach Bar in Aughris Head. It was here that the weekends other events took place; judges workshop, SUP movies, SUP dinner, and the suppers after party celebrations on the Saturday night.
Conditions on both days was challenging with surf well overhead, and a very challenging shore break to negotiate. However, the quality and shape of the waves were perfect for SUP surfing. Glassy faces with light offshore breezes and big fast walls. For most, this was the most challenging conditions they have experience but all rose to the occasion and displayed some fantastic form.
This event is about the suppers and celebrating something that we all love…SUP! The results of the finals are only a secondary factor but nevertheless a massive well done to all that battled their way thru and made the finals.
Words by Paul Byrne.
All photos credits to Lois Crighton.
RESULTS:
FIRST TIMERS:
- Mikee Hamilton
- Chris Saunders
- Chris O Hagan
LADIES:
- Michaella Von Stein
- Sarah Gannon
- Linda O Dwyer
- Nicola Jensen
SUB 10FT:
- Alan Corrigan
- Chris Saunders
- Scott Warren
- Simon Dunton
10FT PLUS:
- Dave Owens
- Tony Doherty
- Ozzie Jay
- Noel Smart
MASTERS:
- Paul Byrne
- Tony Doherty
- Ozzie Jay
- Mark Gaul
- Pauric Deery
