DESPITE chilly conditions at Rainbow Beach on Sunday 25 August, 34 surfers from Camden Haven Junior Boardriders took to the waves to show their skills.

Although considered a “social” event, the competition was “fiercely friendly” across all grades.

In the Junior Girls (U18s) division, Lexi Puttick’s impressive display on the water earned her top spot with a score of 7.10, narrowly edging out Marli Carmichael by 1.6 points.

Zeke Woollam from the Cadets (U15s Mixed) division emerged victorious with a score of 11.85, while Beau Hall triumphed in the Groms (U12s Mixed) with a winning score of 11.40.

The Open Mens heat was closely contested, with Rusty Hogan claiming victory with a score of 12.45, narrowly beating Damien Kelly by a fine margin of 0.5 points.

The Micro Groms (U10s) Mixed division was filled with fun and enthusiasm, as young surfers enjoyed the waves without official scoring.

Club spokesperson Shelley Malvern highlighted the inclusive and social nature of the local Boardriders club, describing it as “a great starting point for young surfers”.

The sense of community and support within the group was echoed by U12s grommet Matilda Frisch, who said the Boardriders members were a “great group”.

“Today was so much fun,” Matilda said.

“As the waves were small and good for us to surf in.”

By Kim AMBROSE.