2022 Southern Challenge in Memory of Paul Johannesen presented by Red Herring Surf was run and won on Saturday at RSL’s in fun 2-3 foot surf.
Eventual winners were Dara Penfold taking out her sixth Southern Challenge in Memory of Paul Johannesen. Dara set the line up alight dropping a perfect 10 in her second heat backing it up with a 8.26, Dara showing why she is a World Junior Champion and also while watching the World Surf League Margaret River Masters this week remember she also won this event as a WQS and has her name etched into those stairs. Dara won ahead of Ava Frey and Leandra Lopez.
Matt Kennedy was the standout and winner of the Open Men’s posting a 7.96 and a 6.83 in his first heat to hold on for the day and take out his first 2022 Southern Challenge in Memory of Paul Johannesen finish ahead of Henry Hutchins, Benn Richardson and Mikey Brennan.
This event was an awesome show of Surfing Tasmania ‘s Community with age’s ranging from 11 years of age with Marvin Freeman to John Gregory aged 64. We look forward to presenting an even bigger event next year for our 18th annual Southern Challenge in Memory of Paul Johannesen.
The event is the final round of the RHS Open State Championships for 2022.
On a personal note I would like to take the chance to thank Head Judge Michael Schmidt with fellow judges Richie Hassett and Dustin Hollick also Shayne Clark and the Surfing Tasmania board for backing this event once again.
Luke Johannesen
Event Director.
Also our support sponsors in
Red Herring Surf
Faze Surfboards
We Are Feel Good Inc.
Luna Collections
Red Bull
Ventura Cafe & Surf
SIN eyewear
Stuart Gibson
Wendy Kennedy
Surfing Australia
Surfing Tasmania