THE prestigious Shaw and Partners Coolangatta Gold 2024 showcased an extraordinary display of endurance, resilience, and skill from athletes across the country, with members of the Coffs Harbour Surf Lifesaving Club (CHSLC) stepping up to the challenge.

Competing in one of the most iconic and gruelling surf sports events, the locals proved their mettle across multiple disciplines; ski, swim, board, and run.

Among the rising stars in the Youth Challenge, Hope Mengel put on a great performance.

Older sister Emily Mengel gave it her all in the Under 13 division, while Pippa and Noah Keshk were both outstanding in the same competition.

Kai Vigors tackled the Under 14 challenge in style.

In the highly competitive open division, Coffs Harbour athletes made their mark.

Ethan Dawson finished 94th of 238 participants, followed by Xavier Hulbert, who placed 106th.

Xavier’s brother, Elliot, also pushed through the demanding event, securing 186th place.

Maddison O’Leary and Holly Becker demonstrated grit and determination, finishing 142nd and 193rd, respectively.

The Masters Short Course saw Coffs Harbour’s experienced competitors, Melina and Grant Lawler, proudly complete the 21km endurance test.

Dan Backhouse, President of the Coffs Harbour SLSC, praised the performances.

“Their accomplishment is a testament to the years of dedication and commitment to the sport,” he said.

In the ultimate test of surf lifesaving endurance, Aaron Beavis took on the elite 42km long course, which combines ski paddling, swimming, board paddling, and running.

Completing this intense event is an extraordinary achievement in itself.

“The Shaw and Partners Coolangatta Gold remains one of the toughest surf sports events globally, with its unique combination of disciplines challenging athletes to dig deep, both mentally and physically,” Backhouse said.

“The Coffs Harbour Surf Lifesaving Club couldn’t be prouder of its athletes for their incredible efforts representing the club and community on such a prestigious stage.”

By David WIGLEY