The 2017 Makin Homes Peel Pro will draw a number of big name surfers to Mandurah this weekend as they try to top some of the local talent on their own breaks.
A crop of the state’s most talented surfers and a number of determined locals will hit the water at either Avalon or Gearies (depending on conditions) in an effort to grab some of the total $8000 prize money.
Hosted by the Mandurah Board Riders, the event has attracted a few state champions with a total of just under 80 surfers set to compete.
Mandurah Board Riders president Brian Williams said the Pro was an exciting opportunity for the Peel region’s own to take on some of the state’s finest.
“It’s always exciting when you get this many surfers together and they can hit the water knowing there’s a solid prize up for grabs,” he said.
“We’re in our third year now and it’s nice to be able to continuously host some of these great surfers, and outside the water we can show them what the Peel region has to offer.
“The event wouldn’t be possible without the tireless work of our volunteers as well, so plenty of thanks has to go to them.”
Current open state surfing champion Jerome Forrest will be keen to continue his recent hot-streak with a win at the Pro, while last year’s open men’s champion Luke Campbell will be out to defend his title.
Youngster Macklin Flynn will be able to boast that he is both a state champion and a local, as the 10-year-old will take on much older surfers in the under 18s division just a week after being crowned under 12s WA champion in Geraldton.
Under 18s will be the junior age group on offer the Pro, with seniors ranging from over 35s through to over 40s, over 45s and over 50s.
The open men and women divisions will feature some huge talent fighting it out for the top prize of $2000 prize.
The draw for the tournament is decided in unique fashion, with names chosen out of a hat at random.
Spectators are encouraged to catch the draw at Cobblers Tavern on Friday night at 6pm.
The final venue of the Pro will be chosen closer to the date given which beach offers better waves. To find out where the surfers will be visit the Makin Homes Peel Pro 2017 Facebook page.
The competition kicks off on Saturday, July 22 with finals to be surfed on Sunday.