It’s summer and surf’s up.
The West Coast Surf Shop hosted its annual summer youth surfing camp over three weeks in June and July at the 39th Street beach, just south of the Manatee Public Beach and the shop.
Some familiar faces put on the camp, starting with Brandi Brady, daughter of surf shop owners Ronnie and Jim Brady, along with longtime camp instructor and middle school teacher, Charlene Belsito. A host of young instructors also lent expertise, some learners in camps past.
The first order of business at surf camp is the assignment of proper nicknames. There’s little science in choosing said nicknames but there are interesting results. For example, Noah Winkler was assigned “Shredder,” presumably because he shreds waves. Sophia Darby got “Sofa,” Zeek Griffin received “Megaladon,” while Maverick Champ was “Big Dino.”
Camp places an emphasis on water safety and skincare. After that, it’s all about learning how to catch some waves and have fun.
After going through a “dry run” on the beach in basics — how to paddle and pop up onto the board — the groms are pushed into their first waves by their instructors.
The surf was better than usual for most of the camp — thanks to some weather moving through most afternoons — giving the campers tasty waves for their first forays.
Approximately 25-30 kids ages 5 to 11 years took part in the week-long camps and everyone from the instructors to the kids had a blast, according to Kaitlin Kee, who provided photos for publication.
For more information on surf camp, call the West Coast Surf Shop at 941-778-1001.
Key Royale golf stymied by rain
Due to the frequent rains, golf action was limited to two group outings, starting July 26 with the men’s weekly nine-hole modified-Stableford system match. Mike Clements grabbed clubhouse bragging rights with a score of plus-4, a point better than second-place finisher Kurt Snouffer.
Rain canceled the women’s July 27 event but members were back on the course July 28 for a nine-hole shamble. First place went to the team of Deb and Dave Richardson, Jim Hill and Quentin Talbert, who combined on a 2-over-par 34.
Horseshoes play on
Horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall pits July 27 was short and sweet. Steve Kriebel and Steve Doyle posted the lone 3-0 record during pool play and were the day’s outright champs.
Doyle and Kriebel were back in the mix at the July 30 games, this time as opponents. Doyle teamed up with Jerry Disbrow and cruised to the day’s championship in a 23-9 victory over Kriebel and Bob Baker.
Play gets underway at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Anna Maria pits. Warmups begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by random team selection.
There is no charge to play and everyone is welcome.
Fall soccer plans at the center
Registration for the youth fall soccer league at the Center of Anna Maria Island is open for players 4-14 years of age.
The last day to register is Aug. 22.
Cost to play in the league is $10 for members and $130 for nonmembers.
Games will be played Tuesday evenings at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, with some Mondays mixed in if needed to fill in the schedule.
Evaluations and team picks are scheduled for Aug. 23 at 6 p.m. for the 8-10 age division while the 11-14 division evaluations are set for 7 p.m.
The center is looking for volunteer coaches and team sponsors for the youth league.
The center also is taking registrations for its adult fall soccer league.
The last day to register is Aug. 30.
Cost for the season is $10 for members and $120 for nonmembers
The adult league schedule runs from Sept. 8 to Nov. 3 with all games played on Thursday evenings.
For more information, contact the center at programs@centerami.org or 941-778-1908.