During the Nestle Peters Surf Boat Series for 2008/09, a seasonal contest between the Hunter and Central Coast Branches, the women’s masters division has doubled in its number of competitors since Round 1 in October.

Many rowers both male and female started learning and competing at age 16, however, once they reach 30 they are classed as a master.

The creation of this division enables those who are still training and fit enough to compete against crews of a similar ability and fitness are not up against their younger rivals.

Even though this ripe age is not considered ‘old’ by far in usual terms, it is on the more mature side in surf life saving where members can start competing as young as under six in nippers.

“Its great to see so much support for this event by our fellow members, and predict it growing over the seasons to come as more rowers turn of age and still plan compete,” Lyn Cumming of Terrigal SLSC said.

“It can either be the start of end of your rowing career as it’s never too late to learn and have fun.”

Nobbys SLSC Kathryn Reid started rowing at 16, and praises the event for those who did compete when younger and plan to continue.

“Now as mothers, we can return to the sport for more than just the desire to be competitive but to regain fitness after a pregnancy.”

There is a lot if talent, experience, skill and fitness in this division, and its always well contended amongst the crews from Avoca Beach, Terrigal, Nobbys, Merewether and Caves Beach who make up the current pool.

So far Avoca Beach is leading the series with two rounds to go.

For more information visit www.hsls.org.au