This year marks a significant milestone in the history of Pacific Palms Surf Life Saving Club.
On February 24 and 25 the club will celebrate the 20th anniversary since the star of the annual Battle of the Boats surf boat carnival.
From its humble beginnings in 1999 with just (approximately) 70 crews competing, this long running carnival now attracts close to 200 of the top surf boat crews from along the country’s East Coast.
Held over two days annually in late February, the event is held at Elizabeth Beach, in Booti Booti National Park.
It has gained the reputation as one of the must do events on the surf boat rowers’ calendar and with more than $8000 up for grabs.
Spectators can be assured of thrills and spills galore as the crews battle it out for top placings.
With racing in 10 categories and a round robin format, each crew is guaranteed a full weekend of racing, with finals of all categories to be held on the Sunday afternoon.
The ever popular Tim Knight Club Relay – one men’s, one women’s and one junior crew from the same club – will again be held on the Saturday.
Entries are starting to pour in, with North Bondi SLSC, silver medallist in the 2017 open men’s category, already registered to contest this event.
Bilgola SLSC, third in the under 19 and under 23 women’s and masters men in 2017, is also back to better their previous results.
“The Battle of the Boats 2018 is a great opportunity for locals to view surf boat racing at its very best,” club president, David Ellis said.
“With the NSW State and Australian championships just around the corner, crews will be honing their performances for these prestigious events and we can expect to see some thrilling surfboat action over the weekend.”
With expert commentary throughout the weekend and plenty of food and drink for sale, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
So come on down to Elizabeth Beach this coming weekend.
Action begins from 7.30am on Saturday and 7am on Sunday.
For more information, head on over to our website pacificpalmsslsc.org.au or find us on Facebook.
A range of local and other businesses sponsor and support the event including Bluey’s Cellars and Deli, Pacific Palms Real Estate, Bluey’s Retreat, Pacific Palms Recreation Club, Millers Turf, Adrenalin Paintball, NBN TV, Frothy Coffee Boatshed, Pacific Palms Resort and JR Richards Waste and Recycling Services.
