In order to get some inspiration to tackle a new (in fact any) adventure, we find it essential to carefully observe, take notes and learn a few tricks before storming head first into a potentially life threatening exercise. Of course it also helps if there are a few cold beverages on hand, bikinis, palm trees and good tunes. Thus, we set out in the blazing sun to watch and learn from the masters of the art, in order to pick up some of the lost surfing “skills” from last year, before foolishly rushing in to confront the masses in the beginner’s line up, armed to the teeth with boards and bodies of immense proportions and shapes. This is how we found ourselves parked off under a palm tree for 3 days, watching the sun, surf, bikinis and surf talent do their thing. It’s not easy I tell you!

Arugam Bay is stepping up it’s game in the surf tourism and surf contest stakes. The 4th annual Arugam Bay Surf Contest, successfully arranged by the Arugam Bay Surf Club, was held in July 2013 and young talent from all over Sri Lanka were keen to showcase their skills.

Surf conditions on day 1 looked promising with a gentle off shore wind and a 1,5m – 2m  swell. The scene set, music warming up, food and drinks at the ready and a crowd of spectators eager to watch these young lads battle it out through the various rounds.

They did not disappoint and the local Arugam surfers seemed to be benefiting from good local knowledge and sound surfing skills. Having seen a few of the Arugam guys playing around in the surf days before, happily doing handstands on their boards, 360 degree spins and backflips, it was not going to be easy for the non locals to beat them at their home break. A friendly rivalry between Arugam and Hikkaduwa boys kept the crowds entertained and waiting for the points after every round to see who would move on to the next rounds.

The swell unfortunately did not pick up much, but there was enough happening on the final day to deliver a few good rounds,  Every round seemed to be a narrow call and eventually the final 4 competitors were announced. The Arugam Bay local guys from the surf club were all through and despite a few long lulls in between the sets, it was hotly contested final which eventually saw 3 times winner Asanka take the title on his home break again, winning a cash prize and a brand new surf board. Hot on his heels were 2nd place Attha, 3rd place Calu Praneeth and 4th place Franjes. 

The country has some promising young local talent who will hopefully, with some training and exposure to more contests, be able to compete at an international level in the not too distant future.

For now, ChillieAndRum feel that our surfing too has progressed immeasurably since the days of surfing Queen Mary, simply by watching all this hot talent. So whilst we ponder our future surfing careers, cocktail in hand watching the sun set over beautiful Arugam Bay the party at the contest looks set to rock all night! And well deserved too!

Should you be interested in surf lessons – contact the guys at the Arugam Bay Surf Club. They are a super bunch of guys, professional, well trained and keen to help! They have a small beach hut, behind the Siam View Bar and Restaurant. (who by the way make great home brewed beer too, after all that dehydrating surf and sun business!) 

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