Barton Lynch gearing up for event number 11

MORE than 360 grommets from across Sydney and ­interstate will converge on Palm Beach, Avalon and Whale Beach next month for BL’s Blast Off.

Jay Brown competing in the BL Blast Off last year.

MORE than 360 grommets from across Sydney and ­interstate will converge on Palm Beach, Avalon and Whale Beach next month for BL’s Blast Off.

Now in its 11th year, the junior surfing festival is run by former surfing world champion Barton Lynch.

With the focus firmly on fun and self-improvement, BL’s Blast Off offers a ­competitive environment with on-the-run coaching.

Surfing legends Layne Beachley, Tom Carroll, Wayne “Rabbit” Bartholomew, Damien Hardman and Ozzie Wright will all be on hand to offer their expertise.

Barton Lynch with standout junior Bodhi Leigh-Jones.

“Every year we sell out well ahead of the event ­taking place,’’ Lynch said.

“It’s great fun and one of my favourite weeks of the year.

“I love being able to give back to the next generation of young surfers.”

Competition begins on Monday, September 26, and concludes on Thursday, September 29. Ten divisions will be run, with boys’ and girls’ 14s, 12s, 10s, 8s and 6s age groups.

Entry is $77 per surfer, with forms online at blblastoff.com.au