By Megan Voo
One of Fleurieu Peninsula’s favourite beaches will be the venue for the South Australian stop of the highly anticipated 2017 Australian Bodyboarding Association (ABA) Pro Tour over three days in May.
With resounding support, locals and surrounding businesses will gather in Port Elliot for the 11th annual Sun Zapper Knights Beach Pro on the 26th-28th of May.
General Manager of the Australian Bodyboarding Association, the aptly named Dylan Beach, says the event is one of the favourite stops on the tour for both riders and spectators. “The wave itself is unique, it’s perfectly suited for riders to show off spectacular air and barrel moves. By closing off the road, we are able to create an amphitheatre-like viewing atmosphere that you don’t find at many surfing event locations around the world.”
Spectators will be able to sit on the rocks and be as close as 30 metres away from the action. Local businesses in Port Elliot have been instrumental in the organisation of the event in previous years, acting in support of the Knights Beach leg of the tour.
“Of course, we couldn’t do it without the support of the local community and businesses. The Alexandrina Council have been huge supporters of the event each year, helping us engage with the entire South Coast community,” Dylan says. Businesses within the community that have contributed in sponsorship include De Groot Coffee, Home Grain Bakery, The Hotel Elliot and The Beach House YHA.
De Groot Coffee will have their van set up on site for spectators to enjoy a warm morning brew while catching the action. The Hotel Elliot will also hold an event on the Saturday evening to gather locals, visitors to the region and those on the tour.
The event draws a young, active crowd to the region over the three-day competition, boasting a negligible environmental impact on the pristine location at Port Elliot. With 50 riders competing from all around the world, the contender list includes the up-and-coming Tanner McDaniel from Hawaii who is a seasoned competitor in world championships. Other competitors include notable riders from last year’s tour, Joe Clarke and Simon Cassidy, as well as Lachlan Cramsie who has been leading the tour rankings so far.
Join in on the fun for the fantastic spectator sport which is set to draw hundreds to the exceptional backdrop of Knights Beach in Port Elliot over the weekend.
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