THERE is little doubt that Dave Renton is a legend of the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club.
This month, the 62-year-old life member of the club was awarded with a local surf boat, sponsored by Meranne Homes, named in his honour at the Ocean Grove SLSC Surf Carnival Championships held on January 15.
The boat is called the Dave Renton.
Renton, who has been an active patrol member at the Ocean Grove SLSC since 1966, felt humbled by his latest honour and dedicated the award to his late brother Barry.
Barry Renton, a former captain of the Ocean Grove SLSC, died in a car accident in 1970.
He was aged 31.
“It is a family thing, to me it is a fantastic honour but the award is for him as well,” Renton said.
“My brother (was a big part of my involvement at the Ocean Grove SLSC), he was my mentor.
“I enjoy the company of young people and I now like being a mentor to the young people at the club.”
Renton is still amazed how the events unfolded on the day that led to his honour.
“It was a ceremony on the day, I was asked to put champagne on the boat and christen it,” he said.
“But the whole lot was kept a secret….it was the last thing on my mind, so it was a fantastic surprise.”
MEANWHILE more than 1000 competitors took part in the Surf Carnival Championships on January 15 at Ocean Grove. See pictures page 42-43 and 48.
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