Paul Wayland from Mona Vale was the star of the day. Pic: Michael Tyrpenou/Surfing NSW

The NSW Open Surfmasters Titles officially kicked off in small, yet beautiful conditions at Werri Beach.

The usual crew of weather beaten, salt encrusted, sand blasted, elder statesmen and women of NSW surfing were on hand as the best 200 surfers in NSW began there campaign for a birth at the Country Energy Australian Surf Festival.

With their competitive drive still as sharp as ever, what transpired was some high-quality surfing.

Led by Paul Wayland (Mona Vale, NSW) in the over 40’s division, who accrued the highest heat, and single wave, total of the opening day with a 12.50 and a 7.50, the day was one to remember.

Ashley Gee (Woolooware, NSW) and Craig Morris (Wollongong, NSW) were also in great form in the early morning rounds, racking up an 7.17 and 7.50 respectively for a ferocious attack on the small, shifting peaks.

As the age division’s rose, so to did the scores as local stalwart, and former ISA World Champion, Terry Richardson (East Corrimal, NSW) wound back the clock with an awesome performance in the over 50’s.

Mark Morgenthal (Mona Vale, NSW) and current Australian champion Rod Baldwin (Copacabana, NSW) were the main drawcards in the over 45’s, and they did not disappoint.

With more scintillating action set to continue tomorrow, the day’s action will be headlined by the crowning of five prestigious state titles - the over 40, 45, 50 and 55 year’s Male division and over 28 year’s Women division.

For the confirmed running schedule, contest location and all information please visit www.surfingnsw.com.au or call the event hotline 0458247212.