So we come to the close of this year’s Tiree Wave Classic. The 23rd year goes by and without wind this time. You can guarantee it will be windy next week. It’s always the same. With only 1 day really of any serious competition, Timo Mullen (Ireland) effectively won the Wave Classic on day one. Our man on the ground, Ivan (and his wife and dog!) was there to report back and provide some photos.
However, it’s not just for the pro surfers, many additional events form part of the Wave Classic which makes it such an integral part of Tiree’s economy and tourism. It attracts younger audiences willing to learn sports, for example at Loch Bhasapol adjacent to Struthan Cottage. 17 rounds of racing were completed with the junior racers prior to finally announcing the winners of the event. William Angus MacLean, of Wild Diamond Windsurfing, said ‘Overall the day turned out to be a great success, even with the light winds that we had over the course of the day. This is an event which we hope to grow for next year to involve more young windsurfers in racing and give them the opportunity to interact with the top stars in the sport.‘
A host of peripheral events and activities ensured no-one would be stuck for anything to do. This included a community drinks reception in which the public were extended a warm welcome to come along and find out more about the Tiree Wave Classic. In addition, the Tiree Lodge Hotel ensured there was something different on every night including two full-to-capacity gigs by local bands Trail West and The Defenders. And this is where the bit about ‘surfers liking fun’ comes in. There’s no doubt about it: if you want to be in the middle of a great party you had to be at The Tiree Lodge Hotel in the evening during the Classic! Wave Classic is most welcome and we look forward to it next year.
