Surfers gun for spot in KZN team

North Coast surfers rocked out to Durban’s Dairy Beach on Saturday and Sunday to prove themselves in the water to earn a spot in the provincial team.

The former KZN Central surfing association, now Ethekwini Surfing Association, hosted the first trials over the weekend for U13, U15, U17, U20 and Open Men/Women and Masters.

Chairman Paul Izzard said there are four trials in which the surfers have to compete for a spot in the team.

“The surfers are awarded points depending on their position in the trials. At the end of the series, the best three results count,” said Izzard.

Izzard said these points along with other criteria are used to select a team and the final selection will probably take place in August.

With regards to the KZN Central Surfing Association’s name change, Izzard said the change of name does not affect the North Coast surfers at all.

“A surfer can affiliate to any district they want to no matter where they live. All surfers who are selected to represent their district as SA Champs also are awarded KZN colours,” he said.

Ilembe will have its own surfing district at a later stage.

Calvin Goor and Sophie Bell, both from Salt Rock, were on fine form winning the U15 boys and girls trial respectively.

Umdloti’s Bevan Willis won his U17 boys trials, while Ballito’s Richard Kidd had a tough heat but came out on top winning the U20 trial with Shane Sykes from Salt Rock having to settle for second place.