Isle of Man Splash-in 1990

by Lawson Wood

Reproduced from in focus 39 (December 1990)

The Isle of Man was the setting for the first 'Splash-in' ever to be held there on September 16th 1990. It was capably organised by BSoUP tax exile/photographer Mike Glover and Mike Bates, one of the boffins from the Marine Biological Laboratory at Port Erin. The Marine Lab. was also the venue for the film distribution, film processing, air filling, shower room and competition exhibition room.

Twenty-two competitors picked up their Fuji films, kindly donated by Fuji UK Ltd and Keigs. Like all Splash-ins, the competition was open to all and sundry and several sundries stowed away on the various ferries to compete in what will be a yearly event on the Island.

A strong easterly wind ruined all the previous day's recce on the best sites - no rock pools for us. Port Erin then also became the best location for the competitors. There is a break water surrounded by very friendly fish and is a safe shore dive. An easy launch access for inflatables; allowed Captain Gordon to ferry groups out to 'The Bowls', Calf Island, the wreck of the Clan McMaster and other "secret" locations and in all yielded an above average entry for the judging that evening.

While the votes were being counted, the large patient audience were treated to a selection of photographs of Basking Shark by Michael Glover. These were taken in early summer of this year and are quite possibly the best photographic record of the beasts so far. Lawson Wood then showed two new audio-visuals on 'Scotland' and 'The Blue' as tension mounted.

Well, 'On the Day' competitions have a way of sorting us lot out, not only did the locals take all the prizes, but one of them had never used a camera before!

First place went to Ben Hexstall, a graduate student at the Marine Lab, and borrower of several bits of underwater photographic equipment.

Second place was won by Maura Mitchell. She of dolphin fame showed us youngsters a thing or two.

Third prize went to Tom Dickie, former TT motor bike champion who was a total novice here. However, his elation was somewhat dampened the following afternoon when, trying to capitalise on his new found success and talent, he became the newest member of the British Society of Nikonos- Floodersl

This event will become an annual fixture in the underwater photographic calender. The Isle of Man is well suited to hosting a great competition and a great weekend. Special thanks must go to the Port Erin Marine Laboratory and Sea Life Centre for hosting the evening.