Cornwall’s Lucas Skinner Dominates at Jesus Surf Classic
Young Perranporth surfer Lucas Skinner had a great day at the Jesus Surf Classic recently, winning not just the under-12’s contest but also the under-14’s against top surfers two years his senior.
In an action-packed day, over 60 under 16’s surfers competed in the very popular 27th Jesus Surf Classic at Croyde beach in North Devon.
Unfortunately, with the swell forecast not looking good for Sunday organisers took the early decision to only run three junior divisions and not the open or seniors.
The sun shone throughout and with light offshore winds and 2 to 3-foot surf on offer for most of the day the surfing performances were top class.
Lucas Skinner took the U12’s title (for the 2nd year running) in a hotly contested final ahead of Fynn Gillespie and brother Heath, with Nikita Petrov in fourth.
In the under 14’s division, Lucas again triumphed in a tight heat, ahead of Fynn Gillespie, Newquay’s Gabe Llewellyn and Eli Perrin-Davies from Ogmore in Wales.
In a hotly contested under 16’s final, Brauntons Alex Townsend pipped Jerseys Max Bennett (2nd) and Bertie Norman (3rd), with Jed Wood also surfing well getting into the final.
With both of the girls’ events being postponed until the next date, organisers said it was great to have some of the young ladies mixing it up with the boys and performing very well.
The surfing winner’s presentation took place in bright sunshine at the contest village where the champions were crowned.
The presentation platform was also shared with BBC presenter Geeta Pendse, who along with her team had been capturing the event for an upcoming edition of BBC Sunday live.
Phil Williams (Head of Christian Surfers UK) thanked all those involved in making this event such a great community day, competitors, spectators, families and friends, the 50+ volunteers from Christian Surfers throughout the UK, and God for providing waves which enabled the competition on Saturday to be completed.
Photos by Andy Holter