The Cook family returned in force to the Shoes competition arena for the March showdown – and ran riot!
Showing that the gods do have a heart, the swell swept onto the reef to allow a full complement of divisions to be held – with riders in all categories bashing the crap out of every wave that dared loom.
Inspite of the rain and side shore winds, the contest absorbed a massive audience of spectators as well as family and friends.
For the first time in many years, the three Cook amigos – Matt, Benny and Daniel – turned out, and as one, set the bar high throughout.
It was like old times, and the trio swept through the Open heats to the Grand Final, with Matt claiming the No 1 spot, Daniel No 3 and Benny No 4.
Defending champion Rhys Moffat was also on fire and finished in second, only two points behind a gung ho Matt.
Two time champ Jarrod Horner was also firing on all cylinders to grab fifth, with Pete Greig aiming up for the over 40s to grab 6th.
The Juniors division is in a state of rejuvenation as a heap of Groms have moved up to the over 14s category. And the mood throughout was a “take no prisoners” approach.
Two time Groms titleholder Dion Earle has not lost any of his fire in making the changeover and left fly on every wave he caught to clinch the No 1 slot, followed hot on his heels by Sam Lee, Xavier Izzard, Ned Coleman and Marcus Moffat.
The Groms also had the “family name” burning brightly, with Jarvis Earle and his sister Casey turning in powerhouse performances to make it to the final and come away with the No 1 and 3 positions.
The other standout in the Groms was new Shoes surfer on the block Jetson Kuch. As his name suggests, he moves at high speed and control. Blake Sawtell claimed fourth position and Riley Lee fifth.
So now having broken the spell that enveloped the contest scene in 2013, it’s onto April 5-6. Be there or miss out on the fun!
Shoes supports its terrific sponsors: Dr John Murray, Only Organic Foods, PCC Surboards, Tengirri Surf Charters, Lipman Construction, WJ Partners, Cronulla Travel, Little Parrot, STC, Cronulla Surf Design and Leo Payne the Sausage
[Ed. Check out the gallery for photos taken by Andrea Para on comp day]
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