Masters win gives Omanu club a head start after first day of surf life saving nationals in Gisborne

Competitors in the TSB New Zealand Surf Life Saving Masters Championships in Gisborne today. Photo / Cameron Walker

Today Omanu Surf Life Saving Club won TSB New Zealand Surf Life Saving Masters Championships, opening up a 150-point lead on their nearest rivals.

The over-30s event was the first day of a four-day national competition underway at Midway Beach in Gisborne.

Omanu had a substantial margin over their closest rivals - and neighbours - Mt Maunganui Lifeguard Service, with Lyall Bay Surf Life Saving Club from Wellington in third.

TSB New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championships event manager Scott Bicknell said they could not have asked for a better day to start the competition.

"The weather and surf have both been absolutely perfect. All of the athletes have thoroughly enjoyed the day and we're already looking forward to tomorrow which we hope will be the same.

He said today was "all about the masters".

"A few of them are in their 60s and 70s which is quite impressive. To be competing in these events when you're 78 years old is incredible and really shows their dedication to surf lifesaving."

Tomorrow will be the senior division events and the competition, which is free to watch, will continue over Saturday and Sunday.

TSB New Zealand Surf Life Saving Masters Championships – Top 5 Results

1. Omanu SLSC, 313 points
2. Mt Maunganui LS, 161 points
3. Lyall Bay SLSC, 89 points
4. Whakatane SLSC, 68 points
5. Waikanae SLSC, 64 points