Top longboarders set to compete on Tweed Coast

THE country’s top longboard surfers will hit the Tweed Coast from July 22 as the Australian Longboard Titles return to the region.

The event forms part of the Australian Surf Championships and will serve as a key qualifier for the ISA World Longboard Championships.

A five-day competition window will open on Monday July 22, with heats expected to run on Saturday and Sunday July 26 and 27, depending on conditions.

The competition will be held across locations from Duranbah to Hastings Point, offering a flexible format to suit the best surf available.

Reigning over-40s champion Tony Abood said the event was about more than just competition.

“It’s the opportunity to meet your peers, make new friends and be amongst the fraternity,” Abood said.

“It’s fun, it’s inspiring, and it gives you that opportunity to show your level of surfing.”

Abood, who lives in Lennox Head, said longboarding had always been a lifestyle.

“I grew up with shortboarding, but longboarding is where my heart lies.”

“Family, fraternity and fun is what the longboarding community is about. You’re guaranteed to have a great time.”

Abood will defend his title this year and said winning the ASC title in 2023 was a career highlight.

“It’s the pinnacle of my longboarding achievements so far,” he said.

Surfing Australia’s events and partnerships manager Beau Brenchley said the format would deliver a showcase of longboard talent.

“For us, the event structure has been designed to give each athlete the opportunity to compete at their very best,” he said.