BEACHGOERS are set for a barking mad sight this summer as a popular dog surfing championship rides its way back to Branksome.
Following a successful event last year, Dogmasters – the only UK surfing championship for pooches, is back for its fourth year and promises to be “more bonkers than ever before” with attendees geared up to take their dog for a fast-paced paddle in the sea.
The championships will take place at Branksome Dene Chine beach on Saturday, July 23. The festivities kick off at 10am with dog surfing heats throughout the day. The various heats will then be followed by a semi-final and final.
Hoping for further success is James Clarke and his beagle Bear, undefeated champions who have won the event three years on the bounce. The pair have also featured on the Radio 1 Scott Mills Show, with Scott himself stating: “Dogs on surfboards – it’s my new favourite thing.”
The event is not just focused on the action, however, with entertainment for all the family including:
- Live commentary and music from Hot Radio
- Shaka Surf Street Market
- The Mutts Market
- The Paw Inn beach bar
- Dog show
- Demo tent
- Food fair
- Beach games
- Kids zone
The ‘pupular’ competition is the brainchild of Mark Reeves, director of Shaka Surf Branksome. He said: “We are also excited to announce that this year we are introducing our new sunset surf session live music stage till late, with chilled summer beach vibes and lots of great musicians.
“Plus, headlining we have 'The Marley Experience' – the best and biggest Bob Marley tribute band in the world – bringing the Reggae vibe throughout the Branksome Dene beach setting at sunset.
“It will be bigger and more bonkers than ever before.”
The event was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic, but its return last year was a sell out with around 1,000 people attending. With no restrictions on visitors numbers this year, Mark and his colleagues hope the event will welcome between 3,000 to 4,000 people.
For ticket information, search Dogmasters at ticketsource.co.uk or visit shakasurf.co.uk/uk-dog-surfing-champs for more.
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