About 109 competitors participated in the event which was generously supported by local and national businesses.

The competition has been held annually for the past 23 years as a memorial for local surfing champion, Bruce “Cooge” Meaker.

Winner of the Cooge Shield for 2008 was international surfer and former local Kai Otton.

Otton is officially ranked inside the world top ten surfers and his class and experience proved too strong for the rest of the competition.

The Open Charger trophy is also awarded as a memorial and tribute to Tathra local James Parbery.

This year’s award was taken out by Bradley Woods.

The contest was held in solid two-metre waves at Tathra Rivermouth on the long weekend.

A large crowd was entertained by spectacular surfing throughout the two day competition.

A presentation dinner was held at the Tathra Hall after competition, which was followed by great entertainment from three local bands.

Special guests on the night were Crystal, Caleb and Tony Meaker and Richard Parbery.

At the presentation dinner the many sponsors were acknowledged and thanked for their generous support.

Results:

Cooge Shield: - 1. Kai Otton, 2. Ryan Hanarahan, 3. Craig Waugh.

Open Charger Award: - Brad Woods.

Cooge Board Team event: 1. John Marshman, Brad Woods, Mick Clarke and Ben Falvey.

Veterans Award: 1. Craig Waugh, 2. Ben Falvey, 3. David Ferguson.

Living Legends Award: 1. Hans Cremerius, 2. Greg Bannon, 3. Bernie Langford.

Open Men’s: 1. Ryan Hanrahan, 2. Kai Otton, 3. Grant Vine.

Open Women’s: 1. Kirri Bolton, 2. Libby Bolton, 3. Jane Hornby.

Juniors: 1. Warwick Fell, 2. Mitch Hale, 3. Josh Finucane.

Cadets over 10: 1. Morgan Smith, 2. Rowen Fell, 3. Ryan Crowley.

Cadets under 10: 1. Jai McCabe, 2. Oliver Clarke, 3. Marley McCabe.