Newsletter 2.6.07
Five QBC contests so far in 2007 and five contests held in competitive conditions ranging from 3-5ft. How lucky are we to be part of Australia’s finest boardriders club and be competing monthly in ideal conditions while the rest of the month is flatter than an SCG pitch. Very lucky. On Saturday 2nd June 56 competitors assembled at the bench and were greeted with a clean 3ft swell screeded by an offshore autumn breeze. 100 ratings points were on offer to the competitors claiming victory in the six divisions contested.
A-Grade saw new member for 2007 Andrew Walker step up from B-Grade, where he has competed since February, and take down some big names in the early rounds. Andrew defeated life member and former QBC champion Ryan in the first round (the defeat was such that Ryan didn’t return to the beach to contest his semi later in the day). Andrew was the standout surfer throughout the contest and claimed the A-Grade final from Tappy and President Cav. But the big news story of the day came from the O/35’s. The great Stephen ‘Spudlett’ Clarke has achieved what the NRL’s greatest player Andrew Johns is yet to do, return from retirement and again rise to the top of his game. Spudlett has had two serious finger operations in the last few years, the most recent being life threatening, but this didn’t stop him getting the nod from the judges in the o/35’s final from TM and Gordo.
A-Grade |
B-Grade |
C-Grade |
O/35's |
1. Andrew W |
1. Tim M |
1. - |
1. Spudlett |
2. Tappy |
2. Cooper |
2. - |
2. TM |
3. Cav |
3. Steve B |
3. - |
3. Gordo |
U/18's |
U/14's |
Snr Women |
Jnr Women |
1. The Drake |
1. Mitch F |
1. Sue |
1. - |
2. Alex B |
2. Hayden B |
2. Courtney |
2. - |
3. Beau |
3. Harry H |
3. Tori |
3. - |
Thank you to Marvo and young Hamish Lecompe for judging more than their fair share of heats. Is it a coincidence that it seems to be the same handful of members, out of a total of approx 120, being thanked every month for judging? Two ingredients make up a surfing contest, competitors and judges. QBC has an abundance of competitors but is unfortunately lacking when it comes to members willing to volunteer their time to judge. Next time you surf your heat I can guarantee you there will be three members judging your surfing for 15mins. So instead of grabbing a coffee or going home to mow your lawns after your heat, why not repay the favour and proactively volunteer your time to judge your fellow competitors.
The next club contest is scheduled for Saturday 7th July (normal cut-off times will apply). The contest will be followed by the annual QBC Moustache Night to be held at the Manly Civic Club from 7.30pm. Previous winners include TM, Merv Hughes, Leon, Freddy Mercury, Nudge and Tom ‘Magnum’ Selleck. This year will see two divisions contested, Best Real Moustache (for the more mature man) and Best Fake Moustache (for the juniors). The much sought after Moustache Night Perpetual Trophy will be awarded to the member who has groomed his/her top lip to the highest standard while incorporating an outfit to suit. The Best Fake Moustache (drawn, glued or stapled on) will be awarded prizes from our sponsors. With the two divisions being contested this year there is no excuse not to take part and compete. Any member arriving at the Civic Club with a clean upper lip had better bring their wallet, as the $300plus bar tab is only available to moustache night competitors.
Congratulations to QBC representative and long-standing member Mark Tickle and partner Susan on the birth of their first child, Keisha Nova born at Mona Vale hospital on 23rd May. Keisha entered the world weighing 9lb and measuring 52cms. But wait, there’s more. Congratulations again Mr Tickle for winning the O/40’s (Masters) division of the Northern Beaches Regional Titles. Mr Tickle will be representing our region at the NSW State Titles to be held at Port Macquarie in July. QBC wishes Mark all the best in July, and the many more months after that changing dirty nappies...
And finally, don’t forget to head down to the Manly Civic Club on the evening of Wednesday 13th June to watch the second State of Origin game. Can the NSW Blues bounce back, like Spudlett, and keep the best of three series alive. QBC will again be putting money on the bar for refreshments and the Civic Club will be serving up sausage sandwiches for all members.
See you in the water,
Brad.