Sponsored by Animal, Surfing England Wraps Up Epic 2023 Junior Surf Series
The 2023 surfing event calendar in England overflowed with competitions, with the Junior Surf Series coordinated by Surfing England and supported by Animal UK, EOLA and RYD Brand taking centre stage. The series offered Under 12s and Under 14s the chance to compete in a welcoming environment, providing many with their first surf contest experience.
Across the year, four beach competitions were held at renowned surf destinations - Croyde, Newquay, Bude, and Praa Sands. The series culminated in a finale at The Wave in Bristol for the top junior surfers. It was a day filled with teamwork, coaching from England's pro surfers, and skill progression for the talented young groms.
Participation in the 2023 series skyrocketed, with most categories hitting capacity numbers. The girls' divisions saw particularly impressive growth after concerted recruiting efforts last year. The enthusiasm from the young surfers continued to build, with new friendships formed and team camaraderie cultivated.
The local Surfing England affiliated surf clubs were instrumental in organizing and hosting the events, lending their knowledge and transforming the Junior Surf Series from concept to reality with support from Surfing England's experienced events team.
Sponsors like Animal UK have been critical to the success of the Junior Surf Series by supporting the rising stars and growing competitive surf scene. Their contributions ensure high-quality events that leave the English groms eager for more. Animal ambassador Emily Currie got involved at the Bude and The Wave events, adding extra excitement.
The England coastline provided the ideal playground for honing skills. This year's goal of nurturing junior surfing talent in a welcoming environment was achieved in spades. The series has proven fundamental for contest experience and performance development at the junior level.</div>
Surfing England looks forward to building on this year's achievements for an even more exciting 2024 Junior Surf Series! Plans include concentrating on bringing a stop to the growing surf communities in the North East region and Isle of Wight to support grom development across the country.
Blog and images are courtesy of Surfing England