Pukehina Surf Rescue celebrated a triumphant victory at the annual Harris Cup Carnival on Saturday, 8 February 2025, bringing the coveted trophy back to its home beach after a 12-year absence. The event, hosted at Pukehina Surf Rescue's newly constructed clubhouse, brought together junior surf lifesavers from across the Eastern Bay of Plenty for a day of friendly competition and skill development.
The carnival saw an impressive turnout of 259 young competitors, including 82 from Pukehina, all aged between 5 and 14 years old. Participants from Ōpōtiki, Whakatāne, Maketū, and Waihī Surf Life Saving Clubs joined the Pukehina team in various beach and water activities, showcasing their skills and determination.
Andrew McDowell, chairperson of Pukehina Surf Rescue, expressed his pride in the club's achievement: "Reclaiming the Harris Cup after 12 years is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our young lifesavers. This carnival is a fantastic opportunity for our members to experience competition in a supportive environment, and it's wonderful to see how their skills and confidence have developed throughout the season."
The Harris Cup Carnival, named in honour of Selwyn Harris, has a rich history in the region. The Harris Cup Carnival is in it’s 16th year running and it has become a key event in the junior surf calendar, fostering camaraderie and skill development among the next generation of lifesavers.
The success of the event was made possible by the tireless efforts of volunteers, officials, and helpers, as well as the enthusiastic support from the local community. Their cheers and encouragement spurred the competitors to give their all throughout the day.
As Pukehina Surf Rescue celebrates this significant victory, they look forward to defending their title in future carnivals. The club continues to demonstrate its commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting water safety in the community, with the new clubhouse serving as a symbol of their ongoing development and dedication to surf lifesaving.
