Burleigh Boardriders Single Fin Classic presented by Billabong Day 1

14^th Burleigh Boardriders Single Fin Festival

Presented by Billabong

January 7^th, 8^th, 9th

Burleigh Heads

ROCK HOPPING, BROKEN BOARDS, GREAT SURFING, AND GOOD TIMES FOR DAY 1 OF THE BURLEIGH BOARDRIDERS SINGLE FIN CLASSIC

Day 1 of the Burleigh Boardriders Single Fin Classic presented by Billabong saw a crowd of around 1000 enjoy classic surfing on boards more than 25 years old in the 14^th year of the iconic event.

With a swell to a metre plus, locals, celebrities, and former pro surfers displayed their skills at the world famous break of Burleigh Heads. As the tide came in more surfer were taking chances on the antique single fin boards, dodging the rocks and performing manouvres thought to be impossible in the era the boards were made.

1999 World Champion, Mark Ochilupo, progressed easily into tomorrows 2^nd day of competition, despite breaking a borrowed classic board, when hitting a rock at full speed and breaking the board in two. Occy grabbed another board and proceeded through the heat and had many and heartfelt apologies for the boards owner.

Dual international footballer Matt Rodgers also showed his style on a single fin, although not progressing through his heat, showed he is a well and truly competent surfer in his own right, getting a few good waves on the unfamiliar craft.

Other highlights of the day were the showing from locals such as Noah Lane, 15 year old Josh Hyland, his brother and former champion Tim, Ryan Grey, Dwayne Harris, 2010 Champion Thomas Woods, and North End surfer Chris Brooks. 7 year old Noah Connors, although not getting through his heat stole the show, the dimunitive grommet taking off on one of the bigger sets, looking like a postcard from Sunset Beach in Hawaii.

Competition continues tomorrow with Occy in the first heat of the day, with the finals wrapping up around 1pm.

Thanks to Swilly for the photos…..