Matt Freeman will compete for Bulli. Picture: JOHN VEAGE
SURF LIFE SAVING
Two-time Australian champion Matt Freeman has come out of retirement for a tilt at the NSW Surf Life Saving belt race title this weekend on the Central Coast.
Freeman will line up for a strong Bulli team and looms as a genuine contender in both the open men's belt and tube rescue.
The 31-year-old won back to back national belt race titles in 2005 and '06 before cutting back his racing commitments.
"Freemo has plenty of experience and he's always been very competitive in the water," Bulli club president Keith Caldwell said.
"He's a former winner in both of the events he's contesting and is a real dark horse."
Bulli will be represented by more than 70 competitors at this weekend's annual state titles.
Events will be held at Umina and Ocean beaches.
"Things are travelling well for the club after a dominant performance at the Illawarra Branch championships and we should be in contention for some strong results this weekend," Caldwell said.
Bulli's open men's surf boat crew has been in superb form all season and is a big medal chance.
"The boys are looking for a podium finish against some of the best crews in Australia," Caldwell said.
Bulli's under 19 men's and under 23 women's crews could grab medals, while the club's lifesaver relay and boat relay teams should feature prominently.
Bulli ironwoman Hannah Minogue is a serious contender in the open women's competition, particularly the ski events.
Other strong Bulli competitors are Beau Wheeler, Jamie Brinkworth, Lachlan O'Grady, Joshua Bond and Downie Langthorne.
