When I am buying rods or any fishing gear for that matter I don't buy on blurb or price or name. I buy on the fish ability ,value for money or a special feature .
The rod I described to you I felt satisfied your requirements .
Most of the wholesalers wouldn't have a clue about Surfcasting rods so when I go to an indent show I am brutal with the rep. Karen cringes sometimes but I try to do the best for our customers most of the time I believe I get it right.
Your comment about distance casting is a valid one we have always intended a back to back but always run out of time.
Neil mentioned that I cast 203m with a Veritas Mk1 that was an off the shelf rod with a cheap Tica Dolphin reel .28 line 15-50 lb tapered leader and a 100g lead.
I would imagine with a clipped down rid and a pilly tail should cast around 150-160m .
I will ask the question a see if I can get a sample rod to get some images . I have given the rod a bend and I believe it is what you are after.