"WSA Surf News," Jack Flanagan, Santa Cruz Sentinel, April 24, 1973

The Santa Cruz 4A Invitational call went out Monday, April 16, to be held Tuesday as the forecast was for excellent surf conditions However the day dawned bright and clear but the swells were small and inconsistent.

Everyone sat around Steamer Lane, shot the breeze, and looked hopefully out to sea. [Contest director] Robert Scott looked a little worried but kept up a brave front and promised "they are on the way."

Sure enough, a strong front pushed excellent waves into the Steamer Lane surfing area on Wednesday. The 24-man double-elimination format got underway at daybreak, and 13 hours later the ordeal was finished

Due to a variety of reasons, none of the top-rated 4A men were on tap to compete, so the 3A surfers from up and down the coast captured the prizes, points, and free meals. Julie Reed, the program chairman, captivated the hearts of the visitors by furnishing accommodations, food, and entertainment for their convenience.

The event ran smoothly under the supervision of Dr. Scott and Ray Allen from San Diego.

As usual, the Lane continued to pump out waves all day, like a machine, despite the strong winds. The area is favored because of the protection afforded by the high cliffs and the kelp. Unlike to the south, where the prevailing northwest winds blow out the surf every afternoon, Santa Cruz is blessed with defenses against this hazard.

In the men s division, Tim Lynch fought his way to the top spot followed by Tony Staples. Locals Aaron Wright and Pat O'Neill surfed brilliantly to finish in 4th- and 6th-place, respectively.

Jane McKenzie, showing her smooth flowing lines on a new stick, again placed first with Mary Setterholm second. The girls find Jane hard to beat in her home grounds as they seem to spook out a bit what with seals, clean-up sets, and cliffs. The bigger the waves the better McKenzie looks.

1973 Santa Cruz AAAA

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