USA BodySurfing launched its inaugural contest on Friday, February 11, 2022 in Huntington. This was the first of three USA BodySurfing contests scheduled to operate in co-location with USA Surfing events in 2022.
The conditions were ideal for competitors and spectators. Consistent 2-4 foot waves with no wind and sunny skies prevailed all day.
Five divisions of competition included:
- Men 45 & Over
- Men Under 45
- Women 18 & Over
- Girls Under 18
- Boys Under 18
The top four finalists in each division received awards. All competitors will be included in seasonal rankings.
Team Da Fin Hawaii swept the finals of the Men’s Under 45 division, Wyatt Yee won first place in a close final heat with his Hawaiian teammates Kealii Punley (2nd), Dane Torres (3rd), and Kanealii Wilcox (4th).
Each division awarded team points to the top four finalists.
The Del Mar women were the big difference in leading the DMBC to team victory over team Da Fin Hawaii In the Women 18 & Over three of the four finalists represented the Del Mar team. In addition to Meredith Rose in 1st place, Sunny Rickard was 3rd, and Scotti Shafer was 4th. Calla Allison was 2nd.
Greg Wilkinson (1st place in Men 45 & over) was joined in the top four of the division with Del Mar teammate Mark Drewelow (3rd). Brett Templeman from Ventura placed 2nd. Famous Hawaiian bodysurfer on team Da Fin, Mark Cunningham, finished in 4th .
Gabby Bigler of Del Mar (13 years-old) edged out Olivia Dillon from Santa Cruz to win top honors in Girls Under 18.
USA BodySurfing is now planning for the next contest on April 22 in San Clements (T Street). Sponsorship opportunities exist for all local and national entities. Sponsors and contributors and can contact [email protected] for further details. USA BodySurfing is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and all individual donations are tax deductible.