The Wollongong Open started at Pines Beach just north of Wonoona on Saturday morning. Northerly winds and small swell up to 1 metre greeted the 16 enthusiastic riders from NSW and QLD. 2005 Wollongong Open winner, Dale Randahl was out to achieve consecutive wins. Local favourite Blair Moore was keen to use the event as an opportunity to practice for the World titles this year. Another local favourite, Lance Milnes was keen for a victory following winning at Lakesea last year and missing out on the last gong comp.

The open division format was man on man with 15 min heats and best two waves. Bumpy conditions made it difficult to do aerial manoeuvres. However Lance Milnes was able to launch his 8ft 2in Go Fast (aka Queen Mary) into the air with ease and looked a clear favourite in the early rounds. Low tide also resulted in a couple of broken ski's as the open division competitors fought their way through the comp.

Kevie Marshall once again took out the Veterans showing us he is still unbeatable. Closely followed by Col Sugars, former champion surfer from the 80's, who attended his first comp in 15 years. Riding a fluoro yellow board, it looks like he will be challenging the National Veteran's title.

Brett Titterton brought some new recruits along who are yet to start competing and local boy, Tyler David attended his first competition.

Everyone went out on Saturday night and had a great dinner at Collies, followed by drinks at the Brewery.

The final rounds of the open and the seniors division was held at Little Austimere, north of Bulli, where Blair and Dale had the edge over competitors with their local knowledge and Justin Barnes struggled to continue with a shoulder injury from Mountain biking the day before. The lone Queenslander, Steve Farthing was also a strong contender throughout the comp.

Winners and place getters of all divisions received some fantastic prizes and prize money. Prizes were supported by Dripping Wet of Manly, That Bali Shop of North Narrabeen who kindly donated a Waveski Bag won by the winner of the Seniors and Brett Titterton who donated a Beach Mat. Entry fee's also went towards lunch and drinks on the Saturday and a new battery for the timer for the Wollongong Club.

Thanks to everyone who made it to the comp. It was a great opportunity to catch up and have some fun. There was also talk of a social surfing weekend at Ulladulla later in the year, we'll keep you posted.

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