Surfboats

Collaroy has a long and proud history as one of the strongest surfboat clubs in the country with many crews experiencing success at Branch, State and National titles.

Often referred to as the ultimate team sport, Surfboat racing is one of the most spectacular events in Surf Life Saving competitions.
Each surfboat is manned by four rowers (stroke, 2nd stroke, 2nd bow and bow) and is steered by a sweep (coach).

Crews compete head-to-head racing from the beach, rowing through the surf into open water and turning at a designated set of turning buoys or “cans”.
After rounding the cans, the crews race back to the beach each keeping in their lane or “alley”.
As the surfboat nears the beach the aim is to catch a wave and surf to shore whilst the sweep steers the boat to keep it upright and on the face of the wave.

Surfboat races are conducted on a weekly basis throughout the Australian summer and hundreds of boat crews take part.

Surfboat competitions offer members the chance to test their skills and fitness against the very best lifesavers in Australia.
Competitors have the opportunity to travel across the state and country to attend numerous local and interstate carnivals.
In order to compete each athlete must have a minimum qualification of a Bronze Medallion and meet the patrol hour requirements according to their membership category.

There are 9 divisions in surf boat rowing competition.

For more information on surf boat rowing in Australia visit the Australian Surf Rowers League

For all Surfboat enquiries contact our Boat Captain Jess Layton