After an 11-year hiatus, the East End Surf Challenge made its official return to the local sporting calendar on National Heroes Day, 26 Jan.
The revival of the event, last held in January of 2015, was spearheaded by brothers and event organisers Nathan and Jordan ‘JJ’ McLean, who also competed in the races.
By taking charge of the event this year, the duo follows in the footsteps of their cousin, Shane ‘Nobee’ Edwards, who first established the surf challenge in 2000.
“[Nobee turned it] into an iconic event that not only displayed the amazing talents of our local riders, but also promoted togetherness of the Caymanian community,” said the McLean brothers.
“Given the revitalisation of the local jet ski racing scene in recent years and abundance of young talent representing Cayman … we along with Nobee were motivated to bring it back … in order to share our personal love for the event (having both competed in it over the years) with the new generation of riders.
“We also wanted to do something positive for the community of East End, in which our family is rooted,” they added.
With over 20 participants and a large public turnout over the weekend, the organisers said it “exceeded our expectations”.
“The crowds poured into East End from all corners of the island resulting in both the beaches and the roads being packed! It was extremely heartwarming to see the support our local riders got from the community,” they said.
Race winners
Cline Glidden III took home the title in the Pro Class, while Brandon Elliot secured the win in the Amateur Class and also took home the Rookie Award.
In the Naturally Aspirated category, Michael Chambers finished in first place, and CJ Wisdom was honored with the Nayaman Award.
Following the success of this year’s turnout, the McLean brothers confirmed that they intend to restore the East End Surf Challenge as an annual fixture.
“This event presents a unique challenge to both local and international riders as it’s the only race on offer in the Cayman Islands that simultaneously challenges riders across both closed course and open water endurance disciplines. Being held in the notoriously challenging seas of East End, it gives riders an opportunity to explore the boundaries of their skill sets like no other race does,” they said.
Organisers noted that the event has a history of attracting international talent since “its inception”, such as multiple world champion Dustin Farthing from the United States. Building on this legacy, they “look forward to hosting more international riders at next year’s event.”
Fish Tea Cook Off
Alongside the action on the water, the event featured the Le Bleu Water Fish Tea Cook Off, a culinary battle where participants were required to cook and prepare their dishes on-site.
Edwards confirmed that first, second and third place were determined by “three judges based on presentation and taste.”
Chef Brown claimed first place, followed closely by Le Le’s Metalworks with The Real Fish Tea Chefs rounding out the top three.
While the judges favoured Chef Brown, the public had their say through the People’s Choice award which was secured by Le Le’s Metalworks in a contest Edwards described as “a close crowd response.”
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