Perth's beaches set for weekend of surf action

Perth's renowned surf beaches provide the backdrop for two of Australia's most gruelling ocean-based competitions this weekend, the Indian Ocean Classic and the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain IronMan Series and Telstra IronWoman Series.

  • Carnival of surf sport hits Scarborough
  • Key events include Indian Ocean Classic and Kellogg's Nutri-Grain IronMan

  • Nipper clinics for young surf lifesavers

Perth's renowned surf beaches provide the backdrop for two of Australia's most gruelling ocean-based competitions this weekend, the Indian Ocean Classic and the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain IronMan Series and Telstra IronWoman Series.

Tourism Minister Kim Hames said the carnival of surf sports would start on Saturday with the Indian Ocean Classic, which was being staged for the second time.

"The Indian Ocean Classic is a relatively new event, which gives surf sport enthusiasts the chance to compete on a similar course to the professional ironmen and women," Dr Hames said.

"Competitors take part in a 1.8km swim, 2.4km board ride, 9km surf ski and a 3.8km run which takes them from Scarborough up to Trigg and back through to City Beach."

The event will feature individuals and team entries as well as a new category, the Indian Ocean Classic Junior, for 13 to 17-year-olds.

The Minister said Australia's top professional surf sport athletes, including Shannon Eckstein, Ky Hurst, Courtney Hancock and Brodie Moir would line up on Sunday for the season opening race in the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain IronMan Series and Telstra IronWoman Series.

"This spectacular summer time event will be telecast nationally on Network Ten and in New Zealand and Asia, giving WA's stunning Indian Ocean beaches great exposure to some of our key tourism markets," he said.

"It will also give locals a great opportunity to see some of the sport's top performers in action."

Dr Hames said the State Government was proud to support both events, through Eventscorp.

      Fact File

Minister's office - 6552 5300