The third day of the Billabong SA Champs at Long Beach yesterday progressed in highly improved conditions compared to the previous two days surfing. “There are some clean sets today,” contest director Cyril Nel said as the contest started. “There are three-foot set waves, and the surfers are getting some great rides.”
It was a full day of surfing, with the Round 3 Open Women and Round 3 U20 Girls followed by the Round 3 of the Open Men and the Round 3 of the U20 Boys, before finishing with the Round 4 Open Men’s Division.
“There definitely are some fun waves out there, a couple of bowls,” reckoned Durban surfer Dan Redman, after winning his round three heat. “I lucked into a couple of three-footers and managed to get some decent scores. I think my wave scores were a seven and an eight, so I was happy with my performance.”
Dan has been enjoying the SA Champs in Cape Town so far, despite a few days of testing conditions. “SA Champs is always a great event,” said Dan. “You get to see all your old friends and there are the normal good vibes that surround such an event. Having said that, seeing as it’s winner-takes-all format to the prize money this year I’m not here to get second place.”
Local boy Matt Bromley was also performing well at his home break, proving that local knowledge is a definite advantage. “Long Beach is a tricky wave at the best of times. I feel that I have an advantage here,” reckoned Matt after his round three victory.”
Matt went on to advance through his round four heat, the last heat of the day.
The forecast for today, the final day of the event, is for small and clean conditions again. Bright sunshine and light winds are predicted.
Along with the allocated prize money and all the speciality awards there is also a Performance Award and R2000 prize money from Buchulife for the best performance from a female surfer during the event.
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