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Dunsborough surfer Jack Medland claims trifecta at Whalebone Classic contest off Cottesloe

Warren HatelyAugusta Margaret River Times
Dunsborough's Jack Medland was ecstatic at winning in three divisions.
Camera IconDunsborough's Jack Medland was ecstatic at winning in three divisions. Credit: Majeks/Surfing WA/Surfing WA

Dunsborough longboard specialist Jack Medland cruised through his weekend contest with the expected form, claiming the top gong at the 23rd Lavan Whalebone Longboard Classic in Cottesloe at the weekend.

The young surfer carried the region’s hopes with him into the longboard classic which was dominated by contestants from outside of the Margaret River region.

After a two-year COVID-19 hiatus, the longboard fiesta saw more than 100 surfers involved in thrills and spills despite “lumpy” 2-4ft waves and winter rain.

Despite the weather, Surfing WA events manager Justin Majeks said a strong crowd soaked up the festival-style atmosphere, while cheering on the event finalists, who “all performed tremendously” despite the tricky conditions.

Medland took out a trifecta of wins including victory in blue-ribbon Pro Men’s division.

Medland opened the 25-minute final with a 7.00 (from a possible 10) and never looked back, going on to amass a two-wave combined total of 13.90 (from a possible 20).

Utilising every inch of his board, Medland combined old-school moves with modern flare as he defeated Cowaramup’s Jock Bahen and other contenders left chasing seven-point rides.

“I couldn’t be happier with this result,” Medland said.

“All the boys surf so well and I knew it was going to be a tough final.

“It was a really good battle and I’m so thrilled to come away with the win.”

Medland also snatched victory in the Old Mal final on a board shaped prior to 1967 on which he took down Bahen once again, as well as fellow Dunsborough surfer Evan Ledger and reigning Old Mal champion Rahn Goddard.

Surfing without a leg rope, Medland looked smooth and stylish as he finished on a two wave total of 12.35 (from a possible 20).

He capped off a memorable weekend with another win in the Open Men’s Logger division, securing his reputation as a talent to watch.

The excitement in other divisions included Margaret River’s Doug Carruthers winning the Over-50 Men’s Logger division.

Majeks said he was stoked the quality of this year’s competition and the spirit of those involved. “It’s great to see the Whalebone back in such a great way,” he said.

“Clearly this event means a lot to a such a large number of people and can’t thank them all enough.”

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