Surf’s up for open

ALEXANDRA LoSURDO

The ZINK SURF South Coast Open returns to Werri Beach on October 12 after its successful debut in 2006.

The event is tipped to become an important part of the Surfing NSW calendar.

It is hoped the tournament will expand to a 96-man draw this year after a 64-surfer event in 2006.

Around 40 per cent of the entrants for the event will be South Coast

talent, event organiser Todd Prestage said.

"There is so much surfing talent down here, but not much opportunity for exposure," he said.

"This event is a great chance for the local guys to prove themselves in our own backyard."

It certainly is, with the South Coast Open already the largest event south of Sydney and attracting several international surfers.

"It is an event on a much broader scale than the Werri Slash," said fellow organiser Dave Hunt.

"It's already attracting top surfers.

"It's the people who don't make the WCT, who don't have the funds to travel all over the place surfing.

"If people realise they can stay home and surf locally, that's great."

The event will also form the final event of the NSW Hurley Championship Circuit.

Not only will the South Coast Open Champion be crowned on the day, but the day will also decide the NSW Surfing Champion for 2007.

"We were the second-last event last year," Mr Prestage said.

"But with the waves we had on the day and the organisation of the event, we have been made the final event this year."

The event is backed by Kiama's ZINK SURF store, as well as bellachara boutique hotel, Kiama Council, Tourism Kiama and Odyssey 20/20.