Gearóid McDaid launches premier youth Surf invitational in Strandhill, Co. Sligo

Saltwater Festival is delighted to announce the debut of the first-ever Gearóid McDaid Invitational — a groundbreaking junior surf competition set to spotlight the future of Irish surfing. Ireland’s leading professional surfer Gearóid McDaid is set to launch a new benchmark in youth surfing with a one-day junior invitational event on the Wild Atlantic Coast.

Held in Strandhill and run in partnership with Irish Surfing, this elite contest will bring together 32 of the country’s most promising young surfers for a high-performance showdown.
“ Bringing my first invitational in conjunction with Irish Surfing to Strandhill means a lot to me — it’s where I grew up surfing and where my journey began. This event is all about giving the next generation of Irish surfers a real shot at something bigger, and showcasing the incredible talent we have right here at home.” — Gearóid McDaid Professional Surfer

This one-day junior surf competition will take place within a seven-day waiting period to allow for optimal conditions. The event features 32 junior competitors, 16 boys and 16 girls, selected by Gearóid McDaid. Two boys and two girls will earn Wild Card entries to the WSL Wild Atlantic Way Junior Pro, held during the Saltwater Festival in Bundoran. Winners will also receive prize packs courtesy of Rip Curl, Bell Surf, and Lost Shore. Runners-up may be considered as alternate wild card selections.

“ Delighted to be involved in the Gearoid McDaid Invitational. He has come up through the Irish Surfing system. This event represents a major step forward for competitive junior surfing in Ireland, and having it led by one of our most accomplished athletes makes it even more meaningful. It’s the kind of initiative that inspires young surfers and strengthens the future of Irish surfing.”
— Gavin McCrea, Technical Director, Irish Surfing

“ We’re thrilled to host the inaugural Gearóid McDaid Invitational as part of Saltwater Festival. This partnership is a perfect match — celebrating Irish surf culture, youth talent, and the energy that defines our coastline. Gearóid’s vision aligns perfectly with our mission to elevate Irish sport and community through world-class events alongside Irish Surfing ”
— Saltwater Festival Team

Anyone interested in taking part can visit www.saltwater.ie