Surf's up at Sandy Bay for Polar Bear Classic

Northland surfer Ben Moretti catches a wave at the Polar Bear Classic surf comp at Sandy Bay on Saturday.

Almost 100 surfers took to the waves in the weekend's Polar Bear Classic surf competition at Sandy Bay.

Ari Danbers,14, Jayden Stokes,13 and Thomas Charlsworth, 15 get some sustenance between waves.

The Polar Bear Classic was first held in 1981 as a fundraiser for the North Coast Boardriders and an excuse to invite other clubs who could make the trek for a good party in the middle of winter and a fun competition at Sandy Bay on the Tutukaka coast.

Cama Kauwhata, 13, Journey Lum, 13 and Tai Erceg Gray, 13 get ready for their heats.

For the first time North Coast Boardriders had a prize of $1000 for both the open men's and open women's division winners over the two-day competition, which was held Saturday and yesterday.

Polar Bear Classic workers Renee Ruddell, Sam Tracey and Aran Arrieta work the books.

Full results will be in the Northern Advocate later this week.

Cousins Desiree and Paige Blakeley watch the competition at Sandy Bay.

Northern Advocate photographer Tania Whyte went along to capture some action.

Jack Tyro catches a ride.