During the Heats
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First World Surfboard Riding Titles, Manly, Australia 1964.
Manly Beach, Sydney, Australia, staged the world's first surfboard riding championship. Sponsored by Ampol Petroleum and organised by Manly Council, it was a huge success. The world's best surfers gathered on the beach, drawing large crowds for the heats, and an estimated 60,000 people turned out to watch the finals.

I was lucky enough to have competed in this memorable event, where I shared waves and made lifelong friendships with surfing greats from all over the globe. Since that event over 40 years ago, surfing has continued to break down language, race and religious barriers, and to bond surfing mates together in a passion for the ocean and riding waves.
My painting During The Heats was inspired by my recollections of the world surfing titles of 40 years ago, 16th and 17th May 1964.

Featured here are some of the more popular vehicles of the era; an Australian surfing icon the VW Kombi is parked next to 1953 Ford V8 Ute, and next to it is a 1952 Dodge Desoto. Surfers unload their boards off the 1960 Ford FB Special station wagon double-parked on the street. Next is a Wolsley 15/60 sedan beside the older ’49 model Holden sedan.

Due to the fact that this original painting is too big for the owners new apartment, we have been asked to find a buyer for this masterpiece of the world's first surfboard riding championships in Manly, 1964:  During The Heats.

Should you wish for further information about this painting please email  Garry and Maria

Size is: 4' x 5' (120cm x 150cm)

Price: AU$9,000.00

Prices include GST and freight in Australia.

For overseas prices please email:    Garry and Maria

© Garry Birdsall