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13-14-09-2003: Report of the 11th Jesus Surf Classic, Croyde Bay, North Devon


The 11th Jesus Surf Classic 2003 held at Croyde Bay, North Devon over the weekend of 13th & 14th of September was blessed with the most incredible surf and weather conditions. The event, organised by Christian Surfers UK, also had a record 186 entrants in 10 categories. The remnants of Hurricane Fabian ensured the surf ranged from 4ft on Saturday, up to 8ft and clean with offshore winds for the Sunday finals. The unusual weather on both days meant that the contest site was bathed in wall-to-wall sunshine with temperatures into the high 70s.

Competition in all categories was higher than ever with a number of travelling WQS Pros supplementing many of the UK?s top surfers.

The open event was eventually won by Joss Ash (Bude), who performed brilliantly throughout the day and retained the trophy he won in 2002. In a very close final, he beat travelling Aussie surfer Jason Duffy into second place. Newquay?s Andrew Griffin, and local surfer Ashley Braunton, (normally known for his longboarding skills), took 3rd and 4th places respectively. All surfers completed some big manoeuvres in the powerful hollow conditions.

The Junior surf event proved a success for Andrew Griffin, who pushed Mitchell Corbett into 2nd and Josh Vyvyan into 3rd.

A very strong field in the Ladies division was eventually won by travelling WQS surfer Lauren Ringer who contested a very tough final in big conditions with Nicola Bunt 2nd, Laura Hellyer (Bideford) 3rd and Vanessa Charles 4th.

Other highlights of the event included Danny Catten taking the Open Bodyboard title, after coming 2nd in 2002, and Deane Hishon (travelling New Zealand surfer) pushing Craig Cuff into second place in the Chris Thornton memorial trophy in the over 30?s division.

Craig Cuff also surfed very well in the Longboard division but was beaten into first place by an on-fire Elliot Dudley (Cardiff), with Chris Thompson 3rd and Eddie Wilson 4th.

A special mention should be given to both the Cadets and Youth divisions who did brilliantly in the heavy conditions, with Jayce Robinson winning the Youth, and Adam Thornton (Braunton) triumphing in the Cadets. Tim Brown won the Cadet Bodyboarding at Putsborough and Eddie Read retained his 2002 title in the Juniors.

The presentations took place in a packed marquee on Sunday evening. Throughout the weekend the Big Move skate contest had been going on with, among other winners, Reubyn Ash taking one of the titles. Kids? games, music and an all day BBQ kept the great crowds entertained when not watching the hot action in the surf.

Feedback to the contest director Phil Williams from many of the competitors was that this was the best Jesus Surf Classic yet. Over 200 helpers from Christian Surfers UK from all over the country gave their time freely, which helped the event run smoothly throughout.
If you want more information on Christian Surfers UK check the website at: www.christiansurfers.org