Page 72 - RADC 2016

SPORT
Sur ng
Lt Col J Dufty RADC
Army Sur ng runs a 1-week competition and training package at RAF St Mawgan each spring.
The Army competition allows individual participation in the disciplines/ categories of: Short and Long Boarding, Bodyboarding and Female.
The top 4 competitors in each discipline are selected for the Army Team to compete at the Tri-Service
Surf Champs. These
individuals then receive
a bespoke training
package, provided by
the Newquay Activity
Centre, in order to
prepare them, and the
team, to compete at the Tri’s.
This year, I came second in the Bodyboarding category in the Army Competition and was selected to compete for the Army at the Tri’s. Unfortunately, due to poor wave conditions the bodyboarding section of the event was unable to run. Instead, I spent my time judging the other disciplines after receiving a training package from an international-level sur ng judge.
My other main role was as minibus driver (!) – believe it or not I was one of the few
Army Sur ng Squad
who had the right categories on my license. I believe I am the highest-ranking
minibus driver in Army Sur ng history!!! At the Triservice Compeition this year
there was a strong showing from the Army (and the AMS) and I would encourage all current or ‘wannabe’ surfers to get in touch with me so I can guide them in the right direction for development and competition.
In order to enhance the standard of sur ng within the AMS I established the AMS Sur ng Association in 2015. The aim is to ensure AMS surfers have greater access to training, events and kit to foster the sport and become
more competitive at Army and Tri-Service level. At the moment, we have some of the best surfers in the Army, and we will only bene t from more people getting involved.
From a personal point of view, sur ng is one of the most inclusive sports within the Army. The attitude is relaxed but committed. Everything that happens is aimed at maximising time in the water and the chance to develop your abilities. Very rarely do I see people getting up so early with such desire to get on with the day ahead. For those wanting to give sur ng a try, I can strongly recommend the Army Sur ng Beginners Week to all our Soldiers and Of cers. You won’t regret it.
Army Bodyboarders standing up for once
Prize winners
I’ll get the next one thanks
70 RADC BULLETIN 2016
At the moment, we have some of the best surfers in the Army