Rain, gale-force winds and beach closures didn’t stop the industry from catching some waves for good at the UnLtd: Big Kahuna surfing competition in Manly last Friday.
The event, organised by our industry’s social purpose organisation UnLtd saw 11 industry teams brave some serious waves and weather conditions to raise over $90,000 for children and young people at risk.
UnLtd CEO Chris Freel said: “What a great start to the year! The cold weather didn’t stop the warm hearts of our industry getting together once again to support those who need it the most. A big thank you to everyone who supported the event and to all the surfers and spectators for braving the weather and helping us raise an incredible $90,000 for children at risk!”
All the teams showed great form despite the challenging weather conditions and in the end it was IPG Mediabrands who surfed to victory with PlaygroundXYZ in second place and Verizon Media claiming bronze.
IPG Mediabrands’ Camille Gray from said: “It’s been a while since the industry has gotten together ‘IRL’ and what better way to get back into it than bracing the elements and spending a day at the beach, especially for such an incredible cause. While my lips were blue from the cold, I couldn’t stop smiling. It was an added bonus to take home the trophy – especially given the wild conditions. We can’t wait for the next one – hopefully with some more sunshine!”
The second annual Big Kahuna event was powered by The Trade Desk and sponsored by Impact, PubMatic and Spotify, with competitors from Impact, IPG Mediabrands, JCDecaux, OMD, oOh! Media, PHD, PlaygroundXYZ, PubMatic, Spotify, The Trade Desk, Val Morgan and Verizon Media. The competitors and spectators were also treated to ice-creams by Pepita’s Ice Cream and a painting workshop by UnLtd’s charity partners Be Centre.
The Trade Desk SVP of South-East Asia, Australia and New Zealand Mitch Waters said: “Big Kahuna is such a great way for our industry to get together for a good cause whilst doing a sport that so many of us in the industry love. It was fantastic to be able to support the event once again and see so many people taking part despite the weather. The result is just incredible and will go a long way in helping break the cycle of youth disadvantage.”
The next UnLtd sporting event – the annual Big Clash cricket tournament – takes place in Sydney on 11 February, Melbourne on 25 February and Perth on 4 March 2021. Limited player spots remain and can be secured by contacting [email protected]
