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ABOVE: Winner of the Al Richard’s memorial Ben Cole hanging ten toes over the nose. BELOW: Paddle out for Harry Pomfrey.

Surfing’s Al Richards Memorial to Ben Cole

ABOVE: Winner of the Al Richard’s memorial Ben Cole hanging ten toes over the nose. BELOW: Paddle out for Harry Pomfrey.
ABOVE: Winner of the Al Richard’s memorial Ben Cole hanging ten toes over the nose. BELOW: Paddle out for Harry Pomfrey.
  Last week the presentation was held for September’s Al Richard’s Memorial. The results are as follows – Overall winner Ben Cole; Best nose-rider – Joel Skinner; Best overall female – Lily Ellis; Highest wave score Ben Cole, 2nd Joel Skinner, 3rd Clancy O’Neil, 4th Ned O’Neil; Best wipe-out goes to Wombat. Ben was unable to receive the trophy, collected by father in law Mick Forrester, former member of Clarence head longboarders, in Ben’s absence. Speaking via text, Ben said he didn’t really know what to say after being announced winner of the award, other than it was an honour in memory of Al. Ben said he felt deeply humbled to win the trophy and was sorry he was not there in person to accept it. “Al, was a good man. I remember whenever he was in the surf there was a good vibe. He was also good at finding the fun waves so if he was out there was no point looking any where else. Annie and Allan Richards were the first two people I met when mum and I moved to Yamba. They welcomed us with open arms and if it wasn’t for their kindness and welcoming attitude I may never have had the chance to keep surfing as much as I did. I am forever grateful”. The October club round began with the paddle out and spreading of ashes of Harry Pomfry on behalf of his wife Margaret. Harry was a true waterman. He bodysurfed Turners Beach seven days a week, three hundred and sixty five days a year. He befriended every member of Clarence Longboarders and it was our privilege to spread his ashes on behalf of the Pomfry family and his close friends. Di Ellis