Sea Wolves hunt down success at Terrigal
The Helensburgh-Stanwell Park SLSC IRB racing team have aptly named themselves the ‘Sea Wolves’. Wolves are strongest when working together in a pack and we proved this at the State races in Terrigal recently by making it into five grand final...
By Katherine Simms
The Helensburgh-Stanwell Park SLSC IRB racing team have aptly named themselves the ‘Sea Wolves’. Wolves are strongest when working together in a pack and we proved this at the State races in Terrigal recently by making it into five grand final races for the first time in our short history.
We were stoked to make it into the finals and very happy to take out a nail-biting 2nd place in the Rookie Mass Rescue, 6th place in the 35+ Mass Rescue and 6th place in the 35+ teams’ events. Unfortunately, due to some small mishaps, we were disqualified in the Male Open Tube Rescue and 45+ Teams events.
These IRB races are conducted up and down the NSW coastline and are fiercely contested, high-adrenalin events. Every member of the team is essential: they need to trust each other and work together in a fast-paced and cohesive manner to achieve success.
Not so long ago our team consisted of four members and one rather sluggish, heavy and old boat. Thanks to the support of the club, local community, our sponsors – Webbers Carpets and Helensburgh Hotel – and the organisation and enthusiasm of our team leaders, we now have 17 team members, including 13 competitors, two officials, two managers and two new boats with very well-looked-after motors.
On top of this, we have one the competition’s best-looking team logos on our wetsuits and team uniforms; our team is a mix of ages and genders (although we are always happy to have more women!); and we compete in a range of categories at these events.
It’s not just about racing either. All team members are involved in the maintenance of the boats and motors, learning and practising their racing skills, and in the planning of team races.
Great mentoring from team leaders means the younger members are increasing their skills and knowledge of racing and water safety while on Surf Life Saving patrols. Most members are also part of the Emergency Call Out Team. As you can see, it takes dedication, fitness and a ‘can do’ attitude to be a Sea Wolf.
If you are interested in learning more about IRB racing, please contact Anthony Ashley at powercraft@stanwellparksurfclub.com.au
Follow the club on Instagram @hspslsc and the Wolves @seawolvesirbteam
