By DI CUDDIHY
The Noosa Malibu Club’s annual Wrecks and Relics Over 50s longboard contest was recently staged in Noosa.
First Point was the backdrop with perfect waves for only the second time in the 11-year history of the contest that is proudly supported by John Madill Toyota, Classic Malibu, Fuyu Surfboards and Golden Breed.
About 120 competitors came from far and near with age divisions ranging from over 50s (the grommets) to over 70s.
This year the Over 70s men had a field of two heats, as did the ladies Over 50s Division and it was clear that age is no barrier to these surfers doing what they love most.
It was no surprise that competitors dug deep to support this year’s charity raffle with thanks to a kind donation from Fuyu Surfboards, the Noosa Malibu Club was able to support Peregian mum Nicole Tsesmetzis, donating $400 to her Fight for Life Fund and getting her closer to receiving overseas treatment for a rare cancer.
The same amount was donated to the Mark McNamarra Fund to help Macca’s family after he passed away unexpectedly earlier in the year at the age of 54.
The Wrecks regulars have become family, sharing triumphs and sadness, and stories of their grandchildren and their losses.
The tales get longer, the wrinkles a little deeper and the old body, well things just don’t work as well as they used to.
It doesn’t matter who wins, it’s the smiles on the faces that count at the end of the day.
They will all be back next year, a little older, but no one wanting to give up surfing, the good-natured bantering, and the company of friends.
The organisers would like to thank the surfing public for their co-operation in giving the elder statesmen and women a fair go on the Point throughout the weekend.
