Surfers Aim to Break World Record in Newquay This September

Imagine 110 surfers catching the same wave at exactly the same time, all riding together in perfect harmony.

That's exactly what organizers are planning for September 19th at Great Western Beach in Newquay, one of the UK's most beloved surf towns. The Earthwave team is rallying the community to break their own world record from 2009, when 110 surfers successfully rode one wave simultaneously in Cape Town.

Dene Botha and his team originally set the record nearly two decades ago after hearing about 40 surfers in Bali sharing a wave. What started with 70 surfers at Muizenberg Beach in Cape Town grew to 77, then 90, then 99, and finally 110 in 2009.

Now they're bringing the challenge to Great Western Beach, where some of Britain's first surfers paddled out back in the 1960s. The location isn't random. This sheltered bay offers the perfect conditions for gathering hundreds of people safely in the water.

The event needs just 111 surfers to claim the new record, but organizers are hoping for much more. Registration is open now, and softboards and wetsuits will be available for anyone who wants to join but doesn't have their own gear.

The Ripple Effect

This isn't just about breaking a record. Earthwave is creating an afternoon celebration of ocean culture, bringing together surfers of all skill levels, families, local businesses, and beach lovers.

"Newquay has an incredible surf and beach culture, and we want to bring surfers, families, businesses and the wider community together to create something that genuinely belongs here," Botha explained. "This is year one. We want Newquay to be able to say: we were there at the beginning."

The inclusive approach means experienced wave riders will share the lineup with first-timers, all united by their love of the ocean. Local businesses are invited to participate, turning the record attempt into a true community moment.

If weather or water conditions aren't safe on Saturday, the team has reserved Sunday, September 20th as a backup date. Safety comes first, but the excitement is building for what could become an annual tradition in Newquay.

One wave, one community, one incredible moment that could put Newquay in the record books.