Masters competitors unleashed on the opening day of 2023 Volkswagen NSW Surfmasters Presented by Moby’s Beachside Retreat
Boomerang Beach, Wednesday 31st May: Today witnessed an exhilarating opening day of the 2023 Volkswagen NSW Surfmasters presented by Moby’s Beachside Retreat. Competitors were greeted with a picturesque scene of sunny skies and clean waves ranging from two to three feet at North Boomerang Beach.
Although the surf occasionally experienced lulls, it failed to deter the enthusiasm of some of our more esteemed senior competitors. In the early hours of the competition, defending Over 60 Men’s Champion and multiple Australian Champion, Rob Baldwin (Copacabana), set an impressive standard in his opening round heat. Demonstrating his seasoned competitive wisdom, Baldwin exhibited patience, waiting for the optimal rides. As a result, he was able to score the highest two-wave total of the round, earning an impressive score of 13.66.
Another notable standout of the day was former professional surfer Col Bernasconi (Forresters Beach). The 2019 Australian Champion showcased his exceptional skills during his Over 45 Men’s heat. Bernasconi delivered a remarkable performance, particularly in the latter part of the heat, where he secured an excellent single wave score of 8.93.
The day ended with impressive performances in the Over 40 Men’s division. Jeremy Cohen (Macmasters) scored the highest single wave of the round with a 6.83, advancing straight to round 3. Defending champion Christo Hall (Narrabeen) comfortably won his opening round heat and will join Cohen in round 3.
The opening day of the competition provided a glimpse into the incredible talent and competitive spirit that will undoubtedly define the remainder of the event. With such remarkable displays from seasoned surfers like Baldwin, Bernasconi and Hall, the anticipation for the upcoming days of the 2023 Volkswagen NSW Surfmasters continues to build.
The prominent five-day event will see over 160 competitors – aged 35 and above – battle it out in an attempt to secure an NSW shortboard title and a spot in the national titles at the 2023 Australian Surf Championships.
2023 is the twelfth year running the NSW Surfmasters Titles presented by Moby’s Beachside Retreat has been held in the Great Lakes region.
Divisions for the event include Over 35 Men, Over 35 Women, Over 40 Men, Over 45 Men, Over 50 Men, Over 55 Men, Over 60 Men, and Over 65 Men.
The competition will commence each day at 7:00 am with the call for the day’s schedule and location confirmed via the event hotline at 6:30 am. The event hotline is 0458 247 212, where all competitors will receive updates and important information in real-time.
This event would not have been made possible without the support of Volkswagon Commerical Vehicles, Moby Beachside Retreat, MidCoast Council, ClubMed and the local MidCoast Community.
