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The Surfing GB Cup will take place this weekend in St Ouen's Bay after a previous postponement due to poor conditions – with high hopes from organisers that it will inspire a new generation of talent.
Four national teams – England, Scotland, Wales and the Channel Islands – will take to the waves at the Watersplash in a competition spanning individual and team categories.
The winners of each category will then have the chance to qualify for the GB Surfing Progression Squad.
The Surfing GB cup was originally planned to run from 11 to 13 October but had to be postponed due to poor conditions.
This coming weekend shows a decent ground swell with light to moderate onshore winds, forecasting waves in the 4-5ft range, organisers have said.
David Ferguson, Event Director, said they are keeping their fingers crossed for good surf.
"We have been keeping a close eye on the weather and swell patterns. There has been a lot of hurricane activity stateside bringing strong winds. On this side of the pond ideally, we need a low pressure out in the Atlantic and a high pressure over us and Europe. This combination produces the magical formula," he said.
"We are confident for swell at the weekend – we are keeping our fingers crossed for favourable winds. No matter the conditions there promises to be some great surfing down at the iconic Watersplash, which has been the venue for so many great surfing events."
"Again, I’m grateful to all our volunteers, the RNLI, judges and sponsors and look forward to a great weekend.”
The line-up of competitors – which includes World Junior medallist Lukas Skinner for England, and star surfers Nathan Elms and Max Bennett for the CI squad – is due to remain the same.
The squad is made up of young surfers who have the potential to become future Olympians.
Former British Champion and GB Surfing Director, Arlene Maltman, said: “GB Surfing’s elite performance pathway aims to develop, progress and empower future champions. I am very much hoping that will involve a local surfer in the future."
"The GB Cup is a prestigious event in the surfing calendar. The stage is set for what promises to be a high standard of British surfing talent. I’m sure our youngsters will be inspired, not only to take up the sport, but to perform on the world stage.”
Constable Andy Jehan, Assistant Minister for Sustainable Economic Development with responsibility for sport added: “I’m delighted to welcome back surfing’s GB Cup to St Ouen's Bay.
"Jersey is a great destination for surfing with a rich cultural heritage. I’d like to welcome all the competitors to the island, and I hope everyone enjoys the waves and what Jersey has to offer."
The full list of Channel Island competitors taking part in the Surfing GB Cup is:
Men’s Team
Will Masterman
Jake Powell
Matt Chapman
Nathan Elms
Josh Evans
Max Bennett
Ladies Team
Rebecca Lynam
Naomi Mathers
Laurie McGregor
Erin Ridgard
Daisy Heddercott
Katie Smith
Boys Team
Anders Ravenscroft
Olly Gould
Aleks Blampied
Albie Gould
Girls Team
Nava Dowse-Harris
Seija Bolletta
Maina Cummins
Rebecca Lynam
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