JONES BEACH, May 28, 2025 – Southend Boardriders from Maroubra emerged victorious at the inaugural South Coast Cup over the weekend, taking home top honors in what organizers described as “all-time” surf conditions at Jones Beach.
Thirteen boardrider clubs from across the South Coast competed for a $4,500 prize pool. After a week of poor weather, clear skies and sunshine greeted competitors on Saturday, setting the stage for a memorable day of surfing.
“It was a beautiful, sunny day,” said Geoff Latimar of Jones Beach Boardriders, the host club. “The incredible weather really allowed the event to shine. We held it in the middle of Jones Beach, and the wave quality was the best we’ve seen in a long time. Although the paddle out was tough, the surfing was unforgettable.”
After the early heats, the competition narrowed to eight clubs, and then to four finalists. Southend secured the win with a score of 29.64, edging out Ulladulla, who finished second with 26.84.
“It was a tight contest,” Latimar said. “It went back and forth, but Southend locked in the win after a perfect 10-point ride from Blake Thorton, a former professional surfer and ex-world tour competitor.”
Jones Beach Boardriders placed third, thanks in part to an impressive 9.5-point wave from Oceanna Rogers in the semifinals—the highest score by any female surfer at the event.
“Oceanna was a standout all day,” Latimar added. “We didn’t quite hit our stride in the final, but finishing third in the first year of this event, against such strong competition, gives us a great foundation to build on.”
Clubs traveled from as far north as South Sydney and as far south as the Victorian border. The event drew a crowd of about 500 people, with a lively atmosphere extending beyond the water.
“There was a real buzz all day,” said Latimar. “We had BBQs, live commentary, and music during the finals. The presentation was held afterward at the surf club with more live music and a pizza truck. It really brought the community together.”
Latimar said feedback from competitors and spectators was overwhelmingly positive, and Jones Beach Boardriders are already planning to bring the event back in 2026.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the local community for supporting us,” he said. “And we want to thank all of our sponsors and partners who helped make it happen—Zink Surf, Kiama Council, The Man Walk, Haworth Guitars, Atmosphere Productions, Ocean and Earth, Secret Sumatra, Kiama Downs IGA, and Superior Meats Shellharbour.”