From the clubs inception some 70 years ago, Point Leo has a proud tradition in Surfboat rowing competitions at both state and national level.
Surfboat rowing is as ‘Aussie’ as the meat pie, iconic and the backbone of most Lifesaving Clubs. The first surfboat race was held at Manly Beach in 1908. Prior to the introduction of the IRB and Jet Ski’s, surf lifesavers used to row wooden long boats out through the surf to rescue stranded swimmers. As with all developed surf rescue craft, interclub rivalry was the basis of competition and used as a way for surf lifesaving crews to stay sharp for rescues. With surfboat racing, the aim of the game is to row your boat out through the surf and turn around, then catch a wave back to shore. The first boat back to the beach wins. Sounds simple, right? Actually, it’s anything but.
A surf boat crew consists of five members: four rowers and a sweep. The sweep stands at the stern of the boat, steering and directing the crew with a long oar, while the four rowers work together to power the boat through the surf and safely back to shore.
The rowing technique is similar to the flatwater rowing seen at the Olympic Games, but surf boat rowing adds the unique challenges of waves, swell and changing wind conditions, making it one of the most demanding and exciting disciplines in surf lifesaving.
In recent seasons, Point Leo Surf Life Saving Club crews have proudly represented the club at major surf carnivals across Victoria and interstate, achieving outstanding success. Highlights include multiple Gold Medals and numerous Finals appearances in Senior competition events and Gold Medals at Masters Championships,
These achievements have established Point Leo’s surf boat crews among the leading surf boat rowing teams in Australia, reflecting the dedication, skill and commitment of our athletes and coaches.
To join a surfboat crew at Point Leo you will need to join the club and be an active member. That involves holding a bronze medallion in surf rescue and conducting regular beach patrols. From there, surfboat crews are allocated during the competition training. Point Leo has all crew abilities from Juniors, Elite, Masters and Social crews.
We welcome all club members to be involved in the boat section, email surfboats@pointleoslsc.com.au for further information.
Some images courtesy: Andy Berry photography with thanks.
