Founded and directed by Barton Lynch and supported by Hurley, the spring school-holidays event (September 26-29) welcomes 350 of the keenest young surfers from across Australia and around the globe to Sydney’s northern beaches for a fun-filled program of coaching, games, activities and competition.

Now in its 12th year, the Hurley BL’s Blast Off attracts the largest field of any kids surfing event in the world, with participants taking part in a unique format that focuses on coaching and performance improvement.

In this spirit, all entrants are offered advice and coaching regardless of their age and heat-placement, in a supportive, fun and interactive environment.

To further inspire young surfers, the event sees participation from some of surfing’s all-time-greats – from ex-world champions Layne Beachley, Tom Carroll, Rabbit Bartholomew and Damien Hardman, to former World Masters champ Terry Richardson, and Hurley young-gun Cooper Chapman.

The Hurley BL’s Blast Off is open to boys and girls aged 14 years and under who have some surfing experience. Entrants must be able to paddle into and catch waves for all divisions except for the 6-and-unders. 

With only 350 spots available, the event is a sell-out each year, with spots in several divisions filling up quickly upon registrations opening. Organisers then run a waiting list – and as things change for early entrants – they work their way down the waiting list in priority order of registration.

Interested athletes and their parents can register for this year’s event at www.blbastoff.com.au

The 2017 Hurley BL’s Blast Off will be held at Whale Beach NSW, with backup locations being Palm Beach and Avalon Beach in NSW.

The final location is determined by surf conditions on the day.