Coffs to host first drop-knee bodyboarding competition

THE COFFS Coast is set to host a historic drop-knee bodyboarding competition from 30-31 May.

It will be the first time a drop-knee competition has been held in Coffs Harbour, and the first event in Australia to include a dedicated women’s division.

Drop-knee is a specialised form of the sport where competitors ride with one knee on the board and one foot planted, creating a style that closely resembles stand-up surfing while maintaining the technical elements of bodyboarding.

Dropknee Sessions (DKS) Contest Director and Events & Operations Coordinator Adam Williams said it would be a landmark event in Australian surfing.

“Dropknee bodyboarding’s premier global event is heading to the Coffs Coast, with DKS making its long-awaited debut across the region’s iconic beaches,” he said.

“The event will run across 30-31 May, with locations spanning the Coffs Coast’s premier breaks including Diggers Beach, Park Beach and Gallows Beach, selected based on conditions.

“Spectators are encouraged to come down and experience the action firsthand, with some of the country’s top dropknee riders set to compete in what promises to be a high-energy showcase of skill, progression and community on the Coffs Harbour coastline.”

Adam gave some background on the history of drop-knee events.

“First held in 2002 at Town Beach in Port Macquarie, the inaugural DKS event attracted 48 competitors and immediately drew international attention, with riders travelling from across the globe,” he said.

“Over the following two decades, the event built a rich and prestigious legacy, becoming widely recognised as the world’s leading dropknee bodyboarding competition.

“From its earliest editions, DKS has consistently attracted elite riders from countries including Japan, Hawaii, Peru, New Zealand, the United States, the Canary Islands, South Africa and Israel.

“This strong international presence has cemented the event’s reputation as a true global showcase of the sport’s best talent.

“DKS is recognised as a world-leading event, not only in drop-knee but across bodyboarding events globally, and we’re proud to bring that level of competition to Coffs Harbour.”

By Aiden BURGESS