350 nippers from Gerringong, Kiama, Kiama Downs, Shoalhaven Heads and Sussex Inlet swarmed Werri Beach on 24 November for the annual Saddleback Cup.

This year's event marked the first time that Shoalhaven Heads and Sussex Inlet joined the competition, adding extra excitement and camaraderie to the already popular event.

Now in its seventh year, the Saddleback Cup continues to grow in popularity, with surf clubs from across the region coming together for a day of fun and friendly competition. 

Despite challenging surf conditions, the event was a huge success, with young nippers eager to get involved and test their skills.

Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) Vice President Mitch Payne reflected on the day’s success, highlighting the importance of encouraging participation rather than focusing solely on competition.

“This year we invited Sussex Inlet and Shoalhaven Heads to get their kids involved and raise awareness for their clubs. It was busy, and the conditions were a bit rough and challenging for the kids, but they all got stuck in and had a blast. At the end of the day, it’s all about having a go and having fun,” Payne said.

The Saddleback Cup was created seven years ago by Gerringong SLSC with the aim of increasing participation in surf life saving and fostering a competitive spirit in the region. 

Initially, it was a small event between the Kiama, Kiama Downs, and Gerringong clubs, with the goal of providing young competitors with a less formal and more enjoyable environment to develop their skills.

“When we first started, not many of these clubs were competing in carnivals,” Payne says. “We wanted to help the kids build their confidence, improve their skills, and promote competition in a fun, relaxed setting.”

Although the day is not about winning, Payne’s voice did seem to perk up when he announced that Gerringong SLSC ended up winners of the day.

“Gerringong did come out at the top, but it was very close. I think it’s getting closer and closer every year,” says Payne.

Looking ahead, Payne is confident that the Saddleback Cup is fulfilling its purpose of boosting participation and competitiveness in the local surf life saving community.

“I think the Saddleback Cup is working really well,” Payne says. “Every year, we’re seeing more kids getting involved, developing their skills, and getting interested in competing. It’s great to see the enthusiasm growing, and it’s important for the future of surf life saving in the area.”

Payne hopes that the event will continue to inspire the next generation of life savers. “We want to develop kids who’ll go all the way and become life savers themselves, volunteering their time to help keep our beaches safe.”

A big thank you was extended by Payne to all the participating clubs, and he expressed his excitement for the event’s future.

“We’re looking forward to next year and hopefully seeing even more kids getting involved in 2025,” he says.