Introduction
Waimārama Surf Club has a rich heritage in surf sports with numerous national titles and placings.
More recently, the club has had many national and regional medals in the beach and canoe events, and is now experiencing a surge in performance across swimming and small craft events. There is a programme for all disciplines with something for everyone.
The club cherishes its awesome culture. It puts a lot of effort into providing pathways for athletes. The club has paid coaches all year round and organises structured training sessions for all ages from junior, under 16, open and through to masters.
The club places a strong emphasis on encouraging an all club approach, mixing sport with lifeguarding and IRB for structured and social activities.
It organises many club training camps, at its fabulous facilities at Waimārama beach, at its bases in Hastings, Clive and Napier, and away at various locations around the country and occasionally overseas. Members have a great time and the surf sports programme is the envy of other clubs regionally.
Equipment
Waimārama provides as much equipment as it can to athletes and it regularly purchases new gear. This allows the better and more dedicated athletes to remain current with the latest designs and allows gear to be filtered down to newer members.
Athletes can apply to have gear formally allocated, in which case there is a small fee to acknowledge the quality of equipment and assist cover repairs.
Athlete Requirements
Athletes are required to purchase club togs, safety vest and a cap for racing. These items can be purchased through the club administrators.
Naturally, safety is the upmost importance as part of the club culture. Safety vests MUST be worn when in the water at training sessions as well as during competitions.
Wetsuit gear is also essential during the winter months and leading up to summer.
And remember your sunscreen and hats!
Masters
The club encourages parents to become involved in club activities. It’s a great way to be involved with your kids and creates a fun and inclusive club atmosphere.
The ability of masters at the club ranges from parents that are giving surf a go for the first time right through to national and world champions. It’s fun, so come along and join the camaraderie.
You can graduate to Masters from age 30 years, from there, there is no age limit.
You can pick your level of involvement, from seriously competitive (in which you are welcome to train with the seniors), to just giving it a go. Our more experienced members are always happy to teach you how to use the surf equipment, or to offer a few pointers.
Being part of our masters team is a great way to challenge yourself, stay fit, and maybe even reclaim a part of your youth. Most importantly, being social is a key emphasis. There are several masters focused events during the year that the club sends teams to.
