Riding a wave of excitement at surf school

Two tourism staffers decided to give up their cosy, warm office and make King’s Beach their playground last week. The PE Express was there to capture the memorable moment of their very first surf lesson.

LOTS of energy, willpower and the right attitude is all it took for René Derrocks and Phumeza Ndzambo from Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism to make memories that will last a lifetime.

These two brave ladies went for a one-hour surf lesson at King’s Beach – one of three NMB beaches awarded with the coveted Blue Flag status.

After a warm welcome at Oceanside Surfstore and getting into that wetsuit (a challenge on its own) they took to the beach with a surfboard under the arm.

Learn2Surf freelance instructor Robin van der Merwe first showed them the ropes on sand.

With spirits running high, the two braved the cold water under her watchful eye. Van der Merwe has been surfing for close to 11 years.

Afterwards both ladies agreed that even though this might not have been on their bucket list, they are happy to add it AND tick it off.

“It was exciting, different but fun, really fun. In fact, I feel like going back now! Even if you were nervous like I was, you can still enjoy yourself and have a good time,” said Nzambo.

Derrocks also could not contain her excitement afterwards. “Absolutely brilliant, I loved being on it (surfboard). It is insane when those waves hit you right in the face, but you kind of get used to it. So, if you are up for something new, something different, do come out and try it,” she said.

And if you prefer to stay on dry land, you can always rent a bicycle, rollerblades or a skateboard for R60 an hour. Bodyboards can also be rented.

Oceanside Surf Store stocks top-range swimwear, including famous brands like Seafolly, Moontide and Billabong, other men’s, women’s and kiddies’ beach clothing, surf-style jewellery as well as beach accessories, such as hats, sun block, shoes, bags and toys for kids. And they cater for all shapes and sizes from a XS to a 54, says owner Delene Landy.

• The activities are done in partnership with Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• Bookings can be done at Oceanside Surf Store, which is located next to McArthur’s Pool and Leasure Complex, Beach Road in Summerstrand.
• Contact details: 041 586 0000 or email oceanside.surfstore@vodamail.co.za.
• Out of season: 10:00 to 16:30
• In season: 07:30 to 18:30 (earlier times can be arranged)
• Operating days: Open seven days a week.
• Cost: R250 per lesson or R900 for five consecutive lessons. In a group of four or more, a lesson costs R200 (the cost includes rental of a surfboard and wetsuit).
• Valuables can be locked away and there is a shower facility.

WIN! WIN! WIN!