Lahinch, Co. Clare, 26th May 2009 - The West Coast Surf Club (WCSC) – one of Ireland's earliest and longest running surf clubs, having been established in 1970 - is delighted to announce the 2009 WCSC Longboard Classic. This national surf competition in its 6th successful year is set to take place in Lahinch, Co. Clare on the 19th and 20th September.

The WCSC Longboard Classic in Lahinch – the only event of its kind in Ireland – has become one of the most hotly anticipated competitions in the Irish surfing calendar since it was first held in 2003 and attracts surfers from all over Ireland.

The 2008 event, which was blessed with good weather and perfect surfing conditions, saw a record number of local entrants, the overall winner being Stephen Kelleherfrom Lahinch (WCSC). In the previous years the winner had often been from the Kerry region and this years event will be watched with great anticipation to see if a Clare contestant can again be crowned champion.

The 2009 competition organizers Cliodhna Fawl, Noel Cronin, Alan Black and David Collins are already in full swing as they are expecting an overwhelming level of contestants. The deadline for applications has been set for the 06th September 2009, with the first already received. Interested participants may download an entry form from www.westcoastsurfclub.com or send their applications by post (to Lahinch Surf Shop, Old Promenade, Lahinch, Co. Clare c/o Cliodhna Fawl); a non-refundable entry fee of €15 is required on application as is current Irish Surfing Association membership.

“As in previous years, we are delighted to have a custom-shaped Cequential triple-stringer longboard from our local shaper Ian Johnson for our first prize” announced Cliodhna Fawl. Please watch the WCSC website for announcements of second, third and fourth prizes.

Subject to weather and swell conditions, it is anticipated that the 19th September will see the initial heats and quarter finals run off with the semi-final and finals possibly stretching into the 20th September. An experienced panel of judges following ISA standards are assisting in the event headed up by international judge Pascal Devine. Like in previous years, both progressive- and traditional-style moves from cutbacks to nose riding and cross stepping will be awarded points.

Competitors will again be looked after well with lunch being provided in O’Looneys Bar. The host venue for this year will be DannyMacs Pub – where Friday night kicks off with a surfing movie and a Live Band on Saturday evening.

WCSC Chairman Dave Flynn pointed to the popularity of the Longboard Classic attracting a record number of sponsors: "We've always been greatly impressed with the level of interest and support we've attracted since the inaugural event in 2003.” Dave went on to say "Without our sponsors this event would not have become the success it is. Equally, the commitment and dedication of the organizers as well as the surfers participating all combine to produce an event that is fun, relaxed, well organized, properly resourced and above all, a display of some of the best longboarding skills this country has to offer."

About West Coast Surf Club (WCSC)

The West Coast Surf Club was founded in 1970 and is one of the earliest and longest running surf clubs in Ireland. It is part of the Irish Surfing Association (ISA) and hosts on average four competitions annually. The focus of the WCSC lies in their junior members with sponsorship and support for European and International competitors being available. In addition fun events are being organized for surfers to share their experiences and enjoy surfing and socializing together.

With their annual fee members do not only become part of the club, but do also gain the crucial third party insurance which covers surfing accidents.

For further details please contact Cliodhna Fawl 086-3366023 or Dave Flynn 087 629 2335, or visit www.westcoastsurfclub.com.

The West Coast Surf Club would like to thank all of our sponsors: