Highest amount fundraised by Allan Hall / Big Hill Beach Cottages
Last Friday 27 October, the Beecraft SurfAid Cup returned for the 12th year of surfing action at beautiful Manly Beach.
An impressive $90,118 was raised for SurfAid water, health and food security programs, and spectators witnessed both seasoned pros and local legends compete at one of Australia’s most iconic beaches.
With 15 teams battling it out, and once again facing windy and rainy conditions as the day started, fortunately, the surf conditions were favourable with nice 2-3 foot waves on offer.
The event was set up at North Steyne, where surfers had the opportunity to ride both lefts and rights. As the event unfolded, the sun graced surfers with its presence in the afternoon, and a beautiful rainbow painted the sky, adding a touch of magic to the day.
The final saw Allan Hall / Big Hill Beach Cottages, Beecraft, More 4 Life, Perfect Wave and Asquire battle for the Surfing Champions award.
The competition was fierce but, in the end, it was Allan Hall / Big Hill Beach Cottages who emerged as the Surfing Champions narrowly defeating Recoverie Manly by just 2 points in an exciting contest. Allan Hall / Big Hill Beach Cottages didn’t just excel in the waves, but were also the second-highest fundraising team, contributing an amazing $14,100 to SurfAid’s cause.
Allan Hall’s Scott Somerville said the contest was won against all odds.
“In the line-up, youth dominated numerous teams, while ours boasted the wisdom of two 60-year-olds, alongside a budding artist and a strength and conditioning coach. Among them our cleaner, Greg Anderson, stood proudly as one of the seasoned 60-year-olds, contributing his invaluable experience to the winning mix,” said Scott.
There was no shortage of surfing talent on display, with SurfAid’s pro pool including legends Matt ‘Wilko’ Wilkinson, Kobi Clements, Shyla and Zahlia Short, Bryce Martiskin, Christo Hall, Fred Carmody, Jack MacDonald, Max Grayling, Tommy Myers, Sam Page, Samson Coulter, and Sol Gruendling.
We extend our gratitude to these surfers who lent their time to make this day a success, and heartfelt thanks to long-time sponsor of the SurfAid Cup Manly, Beecraft. Their continued support has been instrumental in the success of the event.
SurfAid’s Claire Stafford added, “A big shoutout to the participating teams who have been returning year after year, combining their love for surfing with their dedication to fundraising and supporting SurfAid’s life-changing initiatives.”
Photos were taken by the legendary Fabio Silvestre. View the full gallery via Facebook »