Almost 20 young bodyboarders from the Great
Lakes were put through their paces by two renowned bodyboaders last
month at a coaching clinic held at Bulls Paddock.
Former
professional bodyboarders Ryan Hardy and Heydon “the boogie man”
Bunting were in town to host the clinic on Saturday, November 29.
The
group of young riders, who are members of Forster Tuncurry Bodyboard
Association (FTBA) were put into four different testing surf conditions
from three to four foot waves and heavy shore breaks to small
inconsistent waves and sloppy swell.
The coaches focused on everything from the importance of core strength, manoeuvres and technique to using the correct board.
Both
men also gave tips from their own experiences on the professional tour
and pulled some riders aside to help fine them tune their skills.
Hardy,
who operates a bodyboard school out of Margaret River in Western
Australia, said local riders were spoilt for choice when it came to
Forster’s beaches and they had done well throughout the one day clinic.
“Although
the waves were not the perfect, wedging barrels that everyone assured
me frequented this spot, there were plenty of waves around and it was a
great day for all involved,” Hardy said.
“Heydon and myself were stoked with the enthusiasm from the local groms.
“Forster has a rich history of successful bodyboarders and from what Heydon and I saw things are looking bright for the club.”
Local rider Josh griffin said the coaching session had really helped him progress as a bodyboarder.
“I learnt so many ways to improve my riding from the ...more
