The sun shone brightly in Bundoran as Eurosurf 2011 officially got underway this afternoon in the northwestern seaside town. Over 1000 Competitors, supporters and spectators from all over Europe gathered in the town and subsequently at the “Peak” surf break to watch the opening Parade of Nations and Ceremony which was conducted by Eurosurf Press Officer Shane Smyth and officiated by Mayor of Bundoran Michael McMahon, Minister of State at the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs Dinny McGinley, Marie Ahearne of The Irish Sports Council, Eileesh Buckley of the Irish Surfing Association, Paul McLoone of Failte Ireland, Huw John of the European Surfing Federation and special guest Pro Surfer Bethany Hamilton subject of the movie Soul Surfer which receives its gala screening in Bundoran later that evening.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister McGinley said “Events such as this provide a tremendous boost to the local community and indeed to the wider hinterland of Bundoran. Up to 20,000 visitors are expected to arrive in Bundoran – both spectators and competitors and the event is expected to generate €3m for the local economy”.
Bethany Hamilton, Pro Surfer assisted European Surfing Federation Acting President Huw John with the traditional “Sands of the Nations” ceremony whereby sand is brought from each of the participating nations and poured into one vessel in “Olympic Spirit”. The “Sands of the Nations” are currently on display in the “Fáilte Room” at the Fáilte Ireland Tourist Office at Bundoran Bridge.
