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Surfing event to put South West under the international spotlight - 16 March 2009
The South West Development Commission has come on board as a supporter of this year’s Drug Aware Pro.
The prime rated six star men’s and five star women’s World Qualifying Series surfing competition kicks off at Margaret River on March 30 and is set to attract the attention of media and surfing fans around the globe.
South West Development Commission chief executive Don Punch said the 2009 Drug Aware Pro will showcase the South West as a quality international tourist and surfing destination.
“The 2009 Drug Aware Pro is a premier surfing competition that will place the region under the world’s spotlight,” he said.
“The event will be broadcast to 48 countries and seen by millions of viewers worldwide, including a large spectator crowd.
“At a minimum, 1,500 spectators a day are expected, but if the surf is up, then the numbers could swell to 10,000 during the week and 15,000 on the weekend for the finals.
“This event will really highlight the South West’s spectacular beaches and entice viewers watching the event from their homes to visit the area.”
Mr Punch said the South West Development Commission was pleased to contribute $30,000 to the 2009 Drug Aware Pro.
“We encourage South West residents to take up the opportunity to see talented local surfers compete against some of the best surfers in the world, including 1999 World Champion Mark Occhilupo, defending Drug Aware Pro 2008 champion Tommy Whitaker and current World Junior Champion Kai Barger,” he said.
Drug Aware Pro trials will be held on Sunday 29 March, with the women’s heats commencing on Monday 30 March. 2009 Drug Aware Pro men’s and women’s winners will be crowned following the women’s final on Saturday 4 April and the Men’s Final on Sunday 5 April.
For more information about the 2009 Drug Aware Pro, visit www.drugawarepro.com
…ENDS
Media contact:
Teneille Watson
Community Relations Officer
M: 0417 961 051