King of the Box organisers could not have been happier with the quality field of competitors and waves served up for the ninth annual surfing competition.
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Typically staged at Box Beach in winter but delayed this year due to COVID-19, the popular surf event was instead held in prime weather and surf conditions on one "mammoth" 11-hour competition day on Saturday, November 14.
More than 100 surfers registered to compete. Five out of the six competitions divisions (except cadet girls) was completely full with a wait list of more than 10 people.
"This was the best field we've ever had at the King of the Box," contest director Teza McKenna said.
"When the sun rose on Saturday morning Boxy was two to three feet and pumping. World Tour surfers, QS campaigners and up-and-coming juniors all came and enjoyed one of the most unique waves in the world.
"Being locked away for so long with the health crisis, everyone was stoked to get back to competing and catching up in general."
Forster surfer Ross Cadden surfed a perfect final to defeat Sandon Whitaker (Avoca beach) Mike Clayton-Brown (Anna Bay) and Adrian Catt (Newcastle) to win the open men's division.
The open women's final was dominated by QS surfer Sarah Baum (Newcastle) who was closely followed by fellow QS surfer Phillipa Anderson (Merewether). Jasmine Sampson (Anna Bay) and Skye Burgess filled the minor placings.
The junior men's champion was Issac Foran (Newcastle). Jay Pink (Forster) was second, Jordan Liackman (Frenchmans) finished third and Joel Barry (Long Jetty) fourth.
The cadet boys final was won by Dom Thomas (Frenchmans) in front of Sol Grudling (Avalon), Eden Hasson (Anna Bay) and Nate Hopkins (Norah Head).
The legends over 40 final was a real highlight this year, McKenna said, with former Narrabeen pro Cristo Hall taking out the category in front of Paul Snow (Newcastle), Dale Thomas (Frenchmans) and Glen Valaire (Catherine Hill Bay).
The cadet women's division that was won by Millie Allport (North Shelly) ahead of Natalia Fenson (Newcastle).
"We never had that division previously because the nature of the wave at Boxy is not really suited to novice surfers. The girls who came this year were really good for their age. We expect that division will grow next year," McKenna said.
Division winners were presented their earnings at Shoal Bay Country Club after the competition wrapped up late on Saturday afternoon. McKenna said $6000 in prizes and money was awarded to competition winners and placers.
McKenna thanked major sponsors Burton Automotive, the country club and Port Hunter Sheds and Garages for their ongoing support.
King of the Box will mark its 10th anniversary next year.
