By Michaela Meade
The Rip Curl GromSearch national final will swap the open ocean for man-made waves in Tullamarine this year.
The country’s top junior surfers will be riding the waves in URBNSURF’S artificial wave park next month as they compete for the title of GromSearch National Champion.
Surfing Victoria chief executive Adam Robertson said the organisation was “stoked“ to be hosting the event at URBNSURF.
“The series has proven itself over decades to be an integral part of the junior pathway to the WSL Championship Tour with many National Champions going on to massive successes,” Mr Robertson said.
“Having the event for the first time in an artificial wave park will be an amazing spectacle.”
The GromSearch will feature a new wave designed specifically for the event, which URBNSURF says is one of the most high-performance waves capable of being produced.
URBNSURF brand and marketing manager Rupert Partridge said the manufactured waves will make the focus the talent.
“Taking out the uncontrolled element [of the ocean will show] the technique, ability and skills of surfers, side by side on the same wave,” Mr Partridge said.
“We think it’ll be a great showcase of surfing abilities across age groups.”
URBNSURF group chief executive Damon Tudor said the new wave will mean a lot of fun and entertainment.
“We’re confident the groms will love the new wave setting, and [that it] will result in some mind-blowing performances throughout the event,” Mr Tudor said.
Surfers who were unable to attend a GromSearch event, or did not qualify, will have the chance to go to the national final as a wildcard through the #GromSearchOnline.
The social media event entries are open until Sunday, February 28. Hopefuls need to post images on Instagram of waves they have surfed with the hashtag for the chance to be chosen.
The GromSearch National Final will be on Monday, March 15.
