The Craig McElrath Memorial Event, was a great day of fun surfing and friendly competition at the beautiful Namotu Island in a clean 2-3 foot surf.

The Open Longboard division had 20 competitors. It was the experienced long boarders who rose to the occasion with some classic longboard manoeuvres, hang fives, hang tens and plenty of sole.

The odd tricks like quasemoto and the dead cockroach were also on display bringing much cheer from the spectator boats.

Ian Muller showed his understanding of traditional long boarding to win ahead of Inia Nakalevu who came in second, Bruce Climo was third with Scotty O’Connor at fourth.

The junior longboard saw surfers as young as 10 through to those who were 18. All demonstrated a good feeling for riding a longboard with traditional manoeuvres and tricks as well. The result was close with 1st and 2nd needing a count back to break the tie. Youngster Kiesha Wakeham claimed the win from Timoci (Jimmy) Tuitavaki. Coming in 3rd was Kalani Wakeham and 4th was the youngest competitor 10- year-old Kalama McKellar.

In a first for surfing in Fiji, the very Stand Up Paddle (SUP) surfing was conducted. With a strong field the surfers showed good skills at SUP surfing. Using both paddle and surfboard to perform some powerful turns and yet the finesse to play with the surf on offer. In another close finish which needed a count back with Scotty O’Connor winning ahead of Bruce Climo 2nd. In 3rd was Naiqama and 4th was John Philp.

In honour of Craig all the profits from the event are going to the Craig McElrath Cancer Foundation. A special thanks to our sponsors McDonalds, Namotu Island and Fiji Surf Co. It was your generous support that allowed the FSA to donate the money to such a good cause.