Now in its 14th year, the Shark Island Challenge has been Australia’s premier bodyboarding event for many years and is arguably the most important event for the Cronulla wave-riding community. I say ‘wave-riding’ with a certain air of superiority. It is no secret that surfing and bodyboarding have a rich history of mutual disdain, but the Challenge is the only competitive bodyboarding competition that was recognised as a professional international competition.
For years the Shark Island Challenge was part of the World Tour of Bodyboarding, and was one of five stops on an international circuit of touring professionals. The 2010 competition is not part of this tour, having being scrapped for lack of funding. That’s not to say there will be a shortage of talent though.
The competitive field this year is made up of both local and international riders selected from industry sponsors, which this year includes two former world champions. Among the field of competitors, watch out for two young local riders John Showell of Cronulla, and Shaun Pyne of Gymea. Shaun has been deserved of a place in the Challenge for some time now and it’s great to see the organisers recognising his talent and offering him a spot.
The Challenge will run over one day in the most suitable conditions in the month-long waiting period, from June 14th to July 14th. Check out Fluidzone for more information.
For other events that are happening around Cronulla in the next few weeks, don’t forget to check Cronulla Buzz.
