Lancelin set to host premier windsurfing event

Lancelin is set to host the State's longest running and premier windsurfing event from January 12-15.

  • Ocean Classic attracts about 4,000 local, interstate and international visitors

  • Australia's longest-running windsurfing event; in its 27th year

Lancelin is set to host the State's longest running and premier windsurfing event from January 12-15.

Tourism Minister Kim Hames said the Lancelin Ocean Classic, now in its 27th year, was a popular event attracting about 4,000 intrastate, national and international visitors to the State.

"The event, run over four days, focuses on wave sailing, slalom and the popular 25km Ledge to Lancelin marathon," Dr Hames said.

"About 200 competitors from across Australia and the world will be competing for $25,000 prize money at the event.

"Seven-time world speed sailing record breaker and world champion, Bjorn Dunkerbeck, will return in 2012 to defend his title."

The Lancelin Ocean Classic is proudly supported by the State Government through Eventscorp, which recently signed an agreement to sponsor the event until 2014.

The Minister said Eventscorp was committed to developing WA home-grown events such as the Lancelin Ocean Classic to encourage visitation and add vibrancy to regional WA.

"Lancelin is a renowned destination for windsurfers worldwide and a prime destination to host the event," he said.

"The Lancelin Ocean Classic will also be part of the Multisport 7 Action and Adventure Series, a TV program partly funded by Eventscorp showcasing a variety of action-packed WA events.

"This will highlight the extraordinary beauty of Lancelin's coastline to global audiences throughout Asia, Europe, Africa, South America, Australia and New Zealand.

"The Lancelin Ocean Classic is part of an exciting 2012 events calendar, which features more than 80 sporting, cultural and arts events, with more to come."

       Fact File

Minister's office - 9222 8788