presented by firefly
When we arrive at the Belambras facility in Seignosse at 1 a.m., there is actually no one here. Only Anne, the organization manager, arrived a few days ago with a handful of people. It’s almost scary how empty the area is. But in just a few days, the largest German surfing event with 1,350 visitors will take place here, the adh open surfing 2018. And that’s why we’re here: We are the people who work behind the scenes so that we can celebrate the most amazing parties of the year over Pentecost. We are the roadies, organization people, judges and stewards of the adh open surfing. No idea what that is? Then pay attention, today we’re talking about our job and “the week before”.
The organization team
Before the adh open surfing even takes place, the bookings go to the office. With these lists, Anne then heads off to Seignosse. On site, the bungalows are allocated as stated in the booking. Then it’s time to put the wristbands and keys together, hang up posters, pack goodie bags and be prepared for all questions. Anne can’t do this alone, of course, so she is actively supported by the other organization girls. You’ll get to know them at check-in at the latest, because Juli, Maren and co. show you around the facility. The girls are basically the mothers of the camp and are available all week for all your needs.
The roadies
In addition to all the organizational things, there’s also a lot to do. That’s why our roadies help (especially with setting up). The name says it all: The guys are on the road all day, whether it’s camp or shopping trips. Even the manual work and setting up the music systems are done in no time. Junis, our head roadie, has been with us for six years and knows his stuff very well: “We’re actually the men for everything, whether it’s putting things together or transporting things,” he says. Although the work is sometimes a bit strenuous, the roadies are always in a good mood: “We’re just a fun team,” says Junis, laughing.
The contest team
What would the adh open surfing be without a contest? Nothing! That’s why the contest team, with 21 people, is the largest part of the team in Seignosse. Led by the contest director Uli and together with head judge Tobi, it is decided when the best conditions for surfing are and therefore when the next call is. As soon as the students arrive, a total of 14 judges evaluate the performances on the water. Our beach marshals then signal when the heats start and end. You will meet the team on site on the beach under the pavilions, which is also where our speakers’ voices come from. And if there is something that needs to be sorted out away from the dunes, our Marie, aka Beach Coordinator, is there to help. Incidentally, this is apparently also a thing among surfers; they just can’t help it. That’s why Marie and Tobi are surfing in the contest themselves. Double the effort, double the fun. If you want to get a taste of surfing yourself, our surf instructors will teach you the basics of surfing (the surf course could be added when booking, but is unfortunately already fully booked).
The event team
In addition to the contest, there is a lot of program on offer (as you can see on Facebook). To ensure that this works and that there is no overlap with the contest, for example, but that the layday is not too boring, Anne also works as a side event coordinator. Whether it’s a spikeball tournament or a water slide event, together with the universities, various activities are offered to you during the day. In the evening, there is a brilliant program such as BlueFunkt, Jules Ahoi & the deepsea Orchestra and Bleibtreu (rhythm gymnastics team/Bingolinchen) feat. Macka. Preparations are already in full swing: the stage is being set up and the area is being made ready for a party. By the way, an important fact for anyone who couldn’t get a place at the adh open: for just €40 you can buy the event wristband, which gives you access to the Belambra facility and all side events all week! So it’s worth coming along even if you don’t have a place to sleep.
The watchers
Safety is of course the top priority during the adh open surfing 2018. That’s why we have our stewards. They ensure that the DJ system remains intact during the week and that the night’s quiet is observed. This is especially important on the sea side, as the contest participants obviously have to be fit for the next day. Sounds like a hard job but our stewards are definitely nice people (as long as you’re nice too?)
The bar and medical team
Actually self-explanatory but still not to be forgotten: A bunch of people take care of the drinks supply in the evening. And if, despite all the order, an emergency should occur, we of course also have trained doctors on hand.
adh officials & the media team
The adh open surfing 2018 is of course organized by the General German University Association. That is why the sports representative for surfing, Christoph Edeler, is also on site. This is also the man who you may recognize from the daily press releases and is the sports representative for surfing. This brings us to the last part of the team: Our media team makes it possible for you to feel at home, as if you were there live. The cameramen, photographers and press writers capture the most beautiful moments for you. That is why it is also worth taking a look at our Instagram and Facebook pages: There you can see the crème de la crème of the adh open surfing 2018 every day.