Firstly BSUPA would like to thank all the competitors for their support in the National SUP Surf Series 2016. What sticks out in my mind is the commitment from the rider’s at all three events. Even though the forecasts were not looking as good as everyone would have liked there was a great turnout and positive atmosphere.
Also big thanks goes out to all of the individuals that have helped put a series together this year; the Event Directors, Judges and the beach teams that have made it all possible. Without the dedication commitment and time the series would not be possible.
Putsborough Sands, North Devon.
On the day of the event we were greeted by a fresh North Westley wind, most certainly the worst direction for this location. Saying that it did bring with it a small wave so the conditions were competitive. The forecast for the second day was not good, going completely flat. This meant that it would be a single elimination with no reportage for all divisions. It was most definitely challenging out on the water but there were a few riders making it look a lot easier. The Men’s Open was taken by Aron Rowe, Woman’s Open was topped by Marie Buchannan and the Juniors by Blue Ewer.
Gwithian, Cornwall.
Fantastic turnout and support from the riders, despite more small waves. The event was incredibly well organised by Jason Sawyer despite the challenging conditions. The call was also made for this to be a single elimination with no reportage for all divisions. There were big flat spells and very small waves coming through making it difficult for riders to catch and perform. Again there were some stands out riders making the most of what was on offer. Some rider even took to their race boards to try and help to catch the small waves. The Open Men’s was again won by Aron Rowe, Woman’s Open won by Marie Buchannan and the Juniors by Blue Ewer.
Watergate Bay, Cornwall.
The third and final round, with all to play for still in all divisions. The forecast had been changeable in the run up to the event weekend but had settled with a promising swell on it way. Saturday was looking a little windy, Sunday was looking really good. The call was made to run a single round of all divisions and then complete the rounds on the Sunday with light winds and head high waves forecast. The swell came through and there was some great SUP Surfing on Sunday with stand out performance from Aron Rowe. Also some new talent shining through North Devon’s Max Shepard showed that he can compete with the best in the UK.
The Men’s Open was once again taken by Aron Rowe, Woman’s Open Tina Beresford and Junior by Ben Pye.
So topping the rankings this year as the UK’s number one Men’s Open Champion 2016 and very well deserved went to Aron Rowe, taking a clean sweep of all three events.
Marie Buchannan was crowned Women’s Open Champion 2016.
Blue Ewer takes first place on the podium as Junior Champion 2016.
There are some exciting developments planned for the 2107 series, keep a look out on the BSUPA website for details.
The BSUPA Team