Yup, it’s time for the Jesus Surf Classic, an event that has only gone from strength to strength since its inaugural competition fourteen years ago, with 24 entrants and regularly attracting 160 of the UK’s top surfers.
So what makes this surf competition so different? It would have to be the fact that it is run not only by surfers but a group of particularly Jesus-passionate surfers from the well-known ministry Christian Surfers UK.
This is not just a time to show off talent on the waves; it is also a great opportunity to reach out to many of the competitors and spectators who have little contact with the church and relatively little knowledge of Christianity.
Phil Williams, National Director of Christian Surfers UK, says, “It’s an amazing opportunity for us to take “Church” into the centre of the surf community.“Through many years of servanthood and putting on a top-class, professional surf event, we’ve gained respect and built friendships throughout the hardcore surf community.”
As you would expect from a surf ministry, the approach to direct outreach during the event is relaxed. One member of the Christian Surfers UK team will testify their faith prior to the awards ceremony on Sunday and then the crowd have the opportunity to respond to that testimony.
And the easy-going nature of the Christian witness at the event has worked well to bring new souls to Christ over the years as well as stir up some curiosity in those completely unfamiliar with Jesus.
Following the expansion of the Christian Surfers ministry into the skate field, the Jesus Surf Classic will also feature a Big Move Skate Contest in a skate park specially put together for the weekend.
The Jesus Surf Classic will take place from 9 to 10 September.
