http://reef.wblivesurf.com/Recap:
The 4th Annual Reef Sweetwater Pro Am Surf Fest is in the history books now as one of the best surfing events on the East Coast. Thanks to Hurricane Bertha stalling off the East Coast, this year's event was blessed with some of the best surf ever for a pro-am event in North Carolina. For 3 solid days, waves ranged from waist-chest high with some solid bigger sets in the head high plus range. With over 300 contestants combined in the event, there was no shortage of excitement and and great surfing. Spectators were in the thousands with roars of applause during all divisions of the event.
The pro division was packed again this year with 96 surfers from around the world competing for the $20,000 prize purse. There were a few upsets and the long period swell made it a must to surf smart and pick the better waves that lined up for the higher scores. Last year's Champion Asher Nolan was stopped short in the quarterfinals this year. In the end there were four surfers left fighting for the $5000 first place check. Jeremy Johnston from Florida was crowned the 2008 Reef Sweetwater Pro-Am Surf Fest Champion with lightning quick turns and some big airs in the final. Behind him respectively were Nick Rosza (CA) in second, Aaron Cormican (FL) in third, and Lucas Rogers (VA) in fourth.
In the guys amateur divisions, the usual suspects and rippers were present and the finals showcased some solid talent of future pros. In the Guys Open Longboard division, Tony Silvagni from North Carolina took the crown. In the Guys 14-Under division, Michael Ciaramella from New Jersey was the standout winner. The action packed 15-Over division was not short of action either with persistent and consistent Owen Moffet from North Carolina taking the gold.
In the girls amateur divisions, there were some familiar faces again this year. In the Girls Open Longboard Division, Kate Easton from Virginia took first this year. Jasset Umbel from Florida took gold in the Girls 17-Under and surfed up an group to win the 18-Over division as well.
Overall, the contest couldn't have gone any better with waves, weather, staff, surfers, and spectators. It was comforting to know that after the event on Saturday afternoon, a handfull of surfers saved the lives of several swimmers caught in a bad rip current. I have no doubt that lives would have been lost if it were'nt for the quick reaction of surfers that used their ocean knowledge to help those in distress.
A huge thanks to all the sponsors, staff, and volunteers that made this event possible. We hope to see everyone again next year even bigger and better.
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