In 1972, every international sporting event in Ireland was cancelled, except for one. Teams from around the world refused to travel to Ireland amid the height of The Troubles. The only group of athletes bold enough to risk traveling were surfers.

Surfers from around the globe descended upon the coastal village of Lahinch for the 1972 Eurosurf Championship, the largest surfing event in all of Europe and the competition that would put Irish surfing on the map. Here, surfers from both sides of the divided island would forget about the civil strife and celebrate their shared love of the sport by riding Ireland’s majestic waves.

Keep It A Secret is the first documentary film to tell the inspiring story of these surfing pioneers who found in the exhilaration of wave-riding an escape from The Troubles and a common bond that transcended the political hostilities and religious sectarianism. The incredible, unsung history recounted is as timely as ever, reminding people that the stormiest of seas creates the most thrilling of waves for those with the vision, daring, and passion to ride them.

Screening as part of the 21st Belfast Film Festival. Please note: all tickets are sold via the Belfast Film Festival box office. If you have any access requirements please get in touch with the box office before booking: boxoffice@belfastfilmfestival.org.

For more information about the festival please visit belfastfilmfestival.org.