Gisborne Surfers Victorious

Local surfers filled all the placings bar one in the Gisborne Surfriders' Club's second Open Invitation mid-winter contest, held at Waikanae Beach, near Centennial Marine Drive, at Queen's Birthday Weekend.

Riders from Mt. Maunganui, Hawkes Bay, and Wellington made up half of the 42 entrants, who braved the icy sea to vie for honours in three events.

Conditions proved ideal, with a light off-shore wind and a large swell providing good waves of up to six feet.

The senior men's final was keenly contested, with the surfers taking some spectacular rides in their efforts to notch up winning points. Eventual winner was a young Australian now living in Gisborne, John Bonis, with Bob Davies second, and Wellington's Paddy Perkinson third.

Riding in the junior final, Denzil Owen (Gisborne) walks his board to get the most out of a fast-breaking wave

Four competitors in the ladies' event were, from left: Marice Richardson (3rd), Joan Patty (2nd), Gail Patty (1st), and Lorraine Dobbie (Tauranga).

Junior finalists walk up the beach. From left: Kevin Lewis (2nd), Alan Byrne (1st), Howard Brangwin, Denzil Owen (3rd), and Barry Robinson, all of Gisborne.

Some of the girls who watched the contest

Junior runner-up Kevin Lewis drops down a wave

Bob Davies walks to the nose of his board

The president of the N.Z, Surfriding Association, Mr Dave Wallpole, presenting senior champion John Bonis with his miniature paddleboard trophy.

In the senior final, Tony Griffen (left) of Wellington and Roger Jenkins drive across a fast wave.

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 132 : June 16, 1965

Gisborne Surfers Victorious