Surf lifesaving action sizzles as carnivals tests Winkle competitors

THE past weekend was all about competition with Winklespruit Surf Lifesaving Club members showing they are really going to excel this season, especially with a little more training.

Leading the way once again, was Gene Prato who came second in the singles section at the Pete Marlin surf ski race in East London on Saturday and then achieving a third place in the mixed doubles section with girlfriend Sarah Land on Sunday.

A brilliant achievement.

Sunday saw lifesaving carnivals held in Durban for nippers, juniors and seniors and these members certainly did not disappoint. Lanesca Esterhuizen was the star of the show with a second in beach sprint, followed by Jayson Maree with a fourth in sprints and a fifth in surf swim. Lauryn Erwee fifth in sprints and Caden Button fourth in sprints, also had a good day.

The U12 board relay team made the final against some strong competition and the coaches were pleasantly surprised to see Wade Erwee try the surf swim for the first time and Bryce Techet the iron man. The nippers now have a good idea of their fitness levels and know there is some tough training ahead if they want to improve on their results.

In the junior and senior section, top five finishes were achieved by Tyler Main, Caleb Usswald, Gareth Hazell and Jenna Nel and this against some of the top lifesaving competitors in KZN. Gene Prato lost out as the overall series winner as he was leading the series going into the final event but was away paddling in East London. He nevertheless finished second, which is a great achievement but sadly he will not enjoy his cash prize as girlfriend Sarah has planned a shopping spree.

Nipper parents are asked to note that the nipper examination is on 19 November and KZN South Championships on 3 December so get your children to increase their training efforts if they want to achieve results – the competition will be tough.

See you on the beach.