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In its third year, the Red Bull Riders Cup holds eight regional events for high school surf teams from northern Florida, central Florida, Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, Calif., Santa Cruz, Calif., Ventura, Calif., and New Jersey to earn slots at the National High School Championships.

The first game, taking place at either the 1st or 5th Street Beach in Ocean City (conditions pending) at 4 p.m., will pit wild-card entries Point Pleasant Beach and Southern Regional. Last year, a young Rams team was eliminated by Ocean City in the first game. It is Point Pleasant Borough's first year in the Cup.

"Last year was the first time any of us had surfed by that format. We know the system now. We're not confused as to how it works and we're pretty excited," Rams junior Connor Willem said.

The tournament will have four games and organizers have the option to run them in the best conditions through Saturday. Other games this week will pit Middle Township against Manasquan and Ocean City against the winner of today's wild-card game.

Ocean City High School has reached the national championship semifinals the past two years, beating Santa Cruz, Calif. in the quarterfinals in 2007 and Jupiter, Fla., last year. Mark Meidema has coached Ocean City to 15 consecutive NSSA New Jersey High School championships.

The Red Raiders have won every Riders Cup Game they've surfed.

While Rob Kelly has graduated, Ocean City still has his brother, Chris, and Pat Westman, both seniors who have competed in California the past two years. Rob Kelly brings his experience to the table, returning as the designated professional coach for his alma mater.

The Red Raiders' biggest challenge will likely come from Middle Township. Middle features senior Chris Eaves and freshman Michael Ciaramella, who have both competed at the NSSA Nationals.

For more information, go to www.nationalsurfleague.com.

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