KUALA TERENGGANU: The monsoon season in Terengganu is a time when most people give a wide berth to beaches and coastal regions, where high winds generate dangerously large waves and strong undercurrents.
But for a group of young surfing fanatics, the large breakers are a ‘windfall’, so to speak. And the current northeasterly monsoon is ‘prime time’ for their daredevilry, as they take to the sea at favourite spots such as the wave breaker at the Tanjung and Batu Burok beaches here.
The youths are taking a big risk, as this section of the South China Sea is particularly treacherous during the monsoon season.
But one of the surfing youths, who wished to be identified only as Mat, said that they have been board surfing for years without any untoward incident.
“We usually stick close to the wave breaker, which shields us from being carried away by the undercurrent.
“We need the big waves to catch our ride, and the monsoon season is the perfect time to do this,” said Mat.
Asked if they ever have the jitters over drowning, Mat said that they are extra careful while surfing, and their experience proves useful in tackling the harsh weather conditions.
“We usually stick in groups so that one watches over the other, should help be needed. Also, we stop when it rains for fear of lightning,” he added.