‘Micro groms’ in Gisborne for primary school surfing champs

The Wainui Beach School crew who have been training for the national primary school surfing champs in Gisborne this weekend are, back row (from left): Jonny Hancock, Lenny Quinn, Exley Spring and Bella Borrero. Front: Eva Summerlee, Hannah Hudson, team videographer Bodhi King (head on the surfer), Scarlett King and Sage Thorpe. Absent: Jemima King.

Around 20 rising Gisborne surfers will mix it with other “micro groms” from around New Zealand in the Sticky Johnson Primary School Championships at Midway Beach this weekend.

The two-day champs, this year featuring 80 competitors, are seen as an entry point into contest surfing.

“The event offers a fun, friendly and educational experience that welcomes both first-timers and more experienced juniors looking to develop their competitive edge,” Surfing New Zealand said.

“With some previous competitors now moving out of the primary school age categories, Surfing New Zealand is excited to see a new wave of fresh faces take to the water and bring the stoke.”

The young surfers will be competing in Year 7 and 8 and Year 6 and below divisions.

The Year 6 and under girls division has drawn its highest number of entries ever ... “a fantastic sign of the growing strength and interest in girls’ junior surfing”.

The event’s round-robin format ensures every surfer gets multiple heats, with the aim of building confidence, skills and friendships in a low-pressure, inclusive environment.

It features “epic prizes” from event partners Skullcandy and Sticky Johnson Surf Wax.

“We love seeing the next generation of surfers getting out on the water and having fun,” said Steve Morpeth, owner of Sticky Johnson Surf Wax.

“Supporting the Primary School Championships is our way of giving back to the groms and helping them develop their skills, confidence and love for surfing.

“Events like this are what keep our community vibrant, and we’re proud to be part of it.”

The Gisborne flag will be flying high, including a dedicated crew from Wainui Beach School.

“Our Wainui school team was set up to encourage some of our younger age group into the event and have been part of some free trainings on how to compete for the past five weeks,” said coach and 2002 national women’s champion Holly Quinn.

“We also have a few intermediate age kids in the Year 7/8 division.”