Making waves

FOLLOWING in the footsteps of big brother Josh seven year old Jarrod Szele is earning quite a reputation as a talented young surfer with a win at a recent surf contest held at Palm Beach.

The contest, presented by surfing legend Barton Lynch, was held from October 2 to 4.

As his first contest Jarrod said he was nervous but it was a fun experience surfing the good waves.

On the final day of competition four surfers were locked on equal points making it a close finish in which Jarrod prevailed.

He made a speech in which he thanked his parents and was lifted in the air by surfing great Tom Carroll.

He brought home $800 worth of prizes for his win including a skateboard, DVDs, sunglasses, clothing, a coaching session with Barton Lynch and much more.

The Warilla youngster has been surfing for about 18 months with brother Josh and keen surfing parents Richie and Janelle Szele.

Janelle said surfing is an integral part of the Szele family with the group hitting the waves almost every day.

When I pick them up from school Ive got all of their stuff ready and its straight to the beach. Some days we go from The Farm to Port Kembla looking for a good wave then its straight in the bath when we get home and homework, Janelle said.

Jarrod said his favourite beach to surf at is his local Warilla beach.

He is trained by Tony Palmer and Vaya Phrachanh at Pines Surfing Academy and rides Pines surfboards.

When he is not surfing Jarrod, in year 2 at Oak Flats Public School, enjoys skateboarding and plays soccer for the Oak Flats under 8s.

Despite not hitting double figures in age yet the future looks bright for Jarrod who aims to be a pro surfer when he is older.