After a two-year-long hiatus, the 23rd Lavan Whalebone Longboard Classic returned to Isolated Reef in Cottesloe today, with over 100 of Australia’s best and most stylish big board surfers going head-to-head in some classic metropolitan longboard conditions.
The Whalebone Classic was established back in 1998 after local longboarder Peter Dunn discovered a whale’s rib bone immersed in the surf at Cottesloe and decided to host a longboarding competition in memory of the whale’s spirit.
Two decades on, the Whalebone Classic continues to attract a quality field of surfers, who converged on Cottesloe from as far a field as New South Wales and Queensland, to participate in an event that oozes good vibes and fun times.
The Pro Men’s and Women’s divisions highlighted an exciting start to competition, with clean conditions, great rides and a handful of shock results on offer early on day one.
Lindsay Small (Waikiki, WA), Scott Trew (Gabbadah, WA), Mark Matisons (Cottesloe, WA) and Jordan Morris (Hillarys, WA), were the best of the Men’s surfers early, utilising the full length of their boards on their way to impressive round one wins.
While on the Women’s side of the draw, Lucy Small (Newtown, NSW), Samantha Vanderford (Greenhead, WA) and Sasha Jane Lowerson (Mandurah, WA) all looked in good form as they claimed victory in the 1-2 feet waves.
Arguably one of the most successful surfers in the Whalebone’s illustrious history, Georgia Young (Perth, WA) made a shock round one exit, as did the ever entertaining Evan Legder (Dunsborough, WA).
Cottesloe’s super stylish Mark Matisons was thrilled to have the Whalebone back at his local break and couldn’t contain his excitement with the forecast of more swell on it’s way.
“It’s been such a fun day and I’m stoked to have the Whalebone back,” said Matisons. “It’s been such a fun day so far and it’s just great to have everyone back together, the waves were a little small today, but we’ve got more waves coming which is exciting.”
The Whalebone Classic combines a total of 15 divisions, from Under-18 Juniors to Over-70 Grand Legends and is much more that just a surfing competition, with an impressive social calendar of events and activities for people to get involved with, as well as onsite catering, surf stalls, live music and much, much more.
Competition will continue tomorrow from 8am, with strong northerly winds, a building swell and some showers set to keep competitors and spectators alike on their toes.
The 23rd Lavan Whalebone Longboard Classic is being streamed via www.streamer.com.au for the very time. You can follow all the live scores & results via www.liveheats.com.
For more information on this or any other WA event series be sure to log onto www.surfingwa.com.au and check out all the Surfing WA social media platforms for event updates and information.
Surfing WA acknowledges the State Government’s support through the Road Safety Commission and reminds all our traveling competitors and families of the dangers of sending a text message or using a mobile phone while behind the wheel – Remember #NoTxtNoWrecks.
ABOUT THE 23rd LAVAN WHALEBONE LONGBOARD CLASSIC:
The Whalebone Classic was born in 1998 after local longboarder Peter Dunn, discovered a whale’s rib bone immersed in the surf at Isolators and decided to host a longboarding competition in memory of the whale’s spirit. Two decades later, the competition has grown to become a much-loved tradition within the local longboarding community.
