TROPICSLLIFESTYLE
BEACH G PETS
SURFING DOGS
RIDE WAVES AND CAPTURE HEARTS
HANG 20! WORLD-FAMOUS SURF DOG SURF-A-THON FUNDRAISES FOR PETS WHILE CELEBRATING SURFING CANINES AND THE LOVING HUMAN-DOG CONNECTION
By Lisa A. Bastian
DOGS ARE ADORABLE ANIMALS with such diverse personalities. For many, yapping at leaves, playing Fetch or simply sleeping with their pet parents are their favorite activities.
But for a small cadre of adventurous canines, the relatively new water sport of dog surfing is by far their Reason for Living.
In September 2006, the Helen Woodward Animal Center (HWAC) of Rancho Santa Fe, CA, became one of the first groups in the world to celebrate dog surfing by organizing a competition now known as Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon.
Today, this free, annual event delights thousands of humans (and their dogs) all day long at Del Mar Beach, CA.
“You’ll see dog cuteness everywhere you look and a lot of happy people,” says Jessica Gercke, HWAC’s public relations director. “Knowing they’re all here to support pets is the ‘cherry on the top’ for us at the Center. Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon truly is one of the coolest things to put on your bucket list and see in person.”
? "WE MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE FOR ANIMALS AND PEOPLE" ?
Thanks to about 200 employees, over 300 to 400 volunteers, and many generous donors and sponsors, “we make the world a better place for animals and people,” says Gercke.
Since 1972, the Center has served the greater San Diego community through about 14 educational and therapeutic programs for people, and by providing adoption and humane care for homeless animals.
Fortunately, with fears about the COVID-19 pandemic waning, the 17th edition is expected to be well attended on September 18, 2022. (The 2020 edition was virtual due to pandemic contagion concerns.)
On average each HWAC surfing fun-fest nets $30,000 to $40,000 from entry fees, booth sponsorships, general donations, etc. While not all similar events do this, the Center's Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon gives 100 percent of proceeds to programs benefitting animal causes.
DOGS ARE ADORABLE ANIMALS with such diverse personalities. For many, yapping at leaves, playing Fetch or simply sleeping with their pet parents are their favorite activities.
But for a small cadre of adventurous canines, the relatively new water sport of dog surfing is by far their Reason for Living.
In September 2006, the Helen Woodward Animal Center (HWAC) of Rancho Santa Fe, CA, became one of the first groups in the world to celebrate dog surfing by organizing a competition now known as Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon.
Today, this free, annual event delights thousands of humans (and their dogs) all day long at Del Mar Beach, CA.
“You’ll see dog cuteness everywhere you look and a lot of happy people,” says Jessica Gercke, HWAC’s public relations director. “Knowing they’re all here to support pets is the ‘cherry on the top’ for us at the Center. Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon truly is one of the coolest things to put on your bucket list and see in person.”
? "WE MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE FOR ANIMALS AND PEOPLE" ?
Thanks to about 200 employees, over 300 to 400 volunteers, and many generous donors and sponsors, “we make the world a better place for animals and people,” says Gercke.
Since 1972, the Center has served the greater San Diego community through about 14 educational and therapeutic programs for people, and by providing adoption and humane care for homeless animals.
Fortunately, with fears about the COVID-19 pandemic waning, the 17th edition is expected to be well attended on September 18, 2022. (The 2020 edition was virtual due to pandemic contagion concerns.)
On average each HWAC surfing fun-fest nets $30,000 to $40,000 from entry fees, booth sponsorships, general donations, etc. While not all similar events do this, the Center's Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon gives 100 percent of proceeds to programs benefitting animal causes.
VIDEO: Highlights from the 16th annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon, September 13, 2021, by Blue Buffalo at Del Mar Dog Beach, San Diego, CA. (Credit: Helen Woodward Animal Center)
Surf-A-Thon Basics
While rules for globally held surfing dog contests can vary, many follow the HWAC model.
Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon begins with the water-focused dog surfing contest at 8:30 a.m. Meanwhile, back on the beach, the non-surfing component also starts early with dogs and humans enjoying agility events, costume contests, sandcastle-building contests, interactive dog-focused booths, and plenty of music.
K "SOMETIMES IT JUST TAKES ONE GOOD RIDE TO MAKE A WINNER" K
In recent years up to 80 dogs have competed as surfers. They all wear life vests, and surf on what’s called a “soft” surfboard that allows their paws to grip the surface easier.
Since dogs have four legs “they really know how to balance themselves,” says Gercke. “Most stay on their boards and ride them right into the sand before jumping off.”
Every time a dog surfs, it has two humans on its team as helpers. The first person helps launch the canine into the ocean and ensures a safe beach landing after the ride. The second person located in the deeper water “catches” the surfer, then turns its around to ride a wave back to the shore.
G "DOG SURFERS MAY GET EXTRA POINTS IF THEY'RE EXTRA ADORABLE!" G
Canines compete against others in the same weight class: extra-small dog heats, 1-20 pounds; small dog heats, 21-40 pounds; medium dog heats, 41-60 pounds; large dog heats, 61-85 pounds; and XL dog heats, 86 pounds or more.
They all are judged on criteria such as the size of the wave ridden, surfing form, duration of the ride, and obvious enjoyment of the sport.
Other criteria specific to a heat may include the confidence shown by a dog while riding a wave, the complexity of tricks and maneuvers, etc.
While rules for globally held surfing dog contests can vary, many follow the HWAC model.
Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon begins with the water-focused dog surfing contest at 8:30 a.m. Meanwhile, back on the beach, the non-surfing component also starts early with dogs and humans enjoying agility events, costume contests, sandcastle-building contests, interactive dog-focused booths, and plenty of music.
K "SOMETIMES IT JUST TAKES ONE GOOD RIDE TO MAKE A WINNER" K
In recent years up to 80 dogs have competed as surfers. They all wear life vests, and surf on what’s called a “soft” surfboard that allows their paws to grip the surface easier.
Since dogs have four legs “they really know how to balance themselves,” says Gercke. “Most stay on their boards and ride them right into the sand before jumping off.”
Every time a dog surfs, it has two humans on its team as helpers. The first person helps launch the canine into the ocean and ensures a safe beach landing after the ride. The second person located in the deeper water “catches” the surfer, then turns its around to ride a wave back to the shore.
G "DOG SURFERS MAY GET EXTRA POINTS IF THEY'RE EXTRA ADORABLE!" G
Canines compete against others in the same weight class: extra-small dog heats, 1-20 pounds; small dog heats, 21-40 pounds; medium dog heats, 41-60 pounds; large dog heats, 61-85 pounds; and XL dog heats, 86 pounds or more.
They all are judged on criteria such as the size of the wave ridden, surfing form, duration of the ride, and obvious enjoyment of the sport.
Other criteria specific to a heat may include the confidence shown by a dog while riding a wave, the complexity of tricks and maneuvers, etc.
SURF DOG MANIA (scroll L to R): Some of the many heart-warming photos from the website of So Cal Surf Dogs club for surfing canines and their surfing pet parents.
Specifically, scoring is computed on a 1 to 10 scale (six-wave maximum), with the top two waves counted for the final score.
All heats in a weight class are considered as one (e.g., all small dogs compete against each other, regardless of which small dog heat they're in). First place winners from each weight class move on to the "Best in Surf' finals.
For some reason, “bulldogs seem to like to lie down on their boards, while retrievers like to put their butts up in the air,” laughs Gercke.
And yes, there may be extra points given if surfers are extra adorable. “You can tell if they’re having fun out there. Some contestants do really cute things, like turn around without falling and doing all kinds of surprising tricks."
A “YOU SEE DOG CUTENESS EVERYWHERE YOU LOOK" A
The big day winds down with an award ceremony. First-place, second-place and third-place winners in each weight class receive medals. The top three finalists in "Best in Surf" each get a handcrafted wooden surfboard trophy.
The ceremony includes the induction of a legendary surf dog into the “Surf Dog Hall of Fame" (if one is found worthy that year).
Despite not every contestant receiving an award, lots of encouragement and support is showered upon all four-legged participants.
By mid-afternoon Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon is offically over, but no one seems to care if people and dogs stick around a bit longer. That's because this family-friendly activity with a wholesome party vibe is always guaranteed to be loads of non-stop fun for everyone.
All heats in a weight class are considered as one (e.g., all small dogs compete against each other, regardless of which small dog heat they're in). First place winners from each weight class move on to the "Best in Surf' finals.
For some reason, “bulldogs seem to like to lie down on their boards, while retrievers like to put their butts up in the air,” laughs Gercke.
And yes, there may be extra points given if surfers are extra adorable. “You can tell if they’re having fun out there. Some contestants do really cute things, like turn around without falling and doing all kinds of surprising tricks."
A “YOU SEE DOG CUTENESS EVERYWHERE YOU LOOK" A
The big day winds down with an award ceremony. First-place, second-place and third-place winners in each weight class receive medals. The top three finalists in "Best in Surf" each get a handcrafted wooden surfboard trophy.
The ceremony includes the induction of a legendary surf dog into the “Surf Dog Hall of Fame" (if one is found worthy that year).
Despite not every contestant receiving an award, lots of encouragement and support is showered upon all four-legged participants.
By mid-afternoon Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon is offically over, but no one seems to care if people and dogs stick around a bit longer. That's because this family-friendly activity with a wholesome party vibe is always guaranteed to be loads of non-stop fun for everyone.
SURFING BUDDIES (scroll L to R): Prince Dudeman and Flofy (front) ride a wave together as they compete at the 14th annual (2019) Surf-A-Thon, Del Mar, CA (credit: Reuters).
Dog Safety a Priority
People always ask the Center's staff if the dogs enjoy surfing. “Absolutely! It’s not uncommon to see them drag their boards to the water’s edge and bark until their humans take them out again,” says Gercke.
Surfing dogs show lots of enthusiasm, and those who tend to win contests are extremely passionate about the activity.
“The one thing we love about this sport is that so many of the dogs who surf got into it because their people do it," she notes. "That demonstrates the strong human-pet bond.”
C “DOG SURFING DEMONSTRATES THE STRONG HUMAN-PET BOND" C
No matter if pooches take formal surfing lessons from pros or are taught by their owners, the most important thing is that they like the activity.
While some dogs love to surf, others won’t even try it…and that’s certainly should be their choice. The best surf dogs, says Gercke, are those who are both bonded to their owners and find obvious joy in surfing.
People always ask the Center's staff if the dogs enjoy surfing. “Absolutely! It’s not uncommon to see them drag their boards to the water’s edge and bark until their humans take them out again,” says Gercke.
Surfing dogs show lots of enthusiasm, and those who tend to win contests are extremely passionate about the activity.
“The one thing we love about this sport is that so many of the dogs who surf got into it because their people do it," she notes. "That demonstrates the strong human-pet bond.”
C “DOG SURFING DEMONSTRATES THE STRONG HUMAN-PET BOND" C
No matter if pooches take formal surfing lessons from pros or are taught by their owners, the most important thing is that they like the activity.
While some dogs love to surf, others won’t even try it…and that’s certainly should be their choice. The best surf dogs, says Gercke, are those who are both bonded to their owners and find obvious joy in surfing.
WATCHING SURFING DOGS IS THERAPY! Charlie the Labrador has his own YouTube channel "Charlie Surfs Up." In this video, watch the pup enjoy some of his 2020 surfing adventures; a drone captures multiple cool moves.
The Center's "Paddle Paw" surfing lessons are taught by members of So Cal Surf Dogs, the San Diego-based club for surfing canines and their surfing pet parents.
During each class, the priority is to ensure the dogs "feel safe and loved by their humans," notes Gercke. That means canines are always in water never deeper than waist-deep on a human, never leashed to a board, never far from the shore, and never left alone.
Generally any athletic-breed dog that enjoys running and playing (Pointer, Labrador Retriever, etc.) tends to do better at surfing. But it’s not unusual for mutts or non-athletic breed dogs to do well on the waves, too.
For example, recent top winners have been a Chihuahua, a Pug, and a Long-Haired Aussie. “One of our top surf dogs is a Labradoodle known as Derby the Goldendoodle, who is amazing,” says Gercke.
Surprisingly, a lot of surf awards have gone to bulldogs. Even though they’re big and heavy, they use their sturdy, short legs to their advantage to really lay low and hug the boards. (Read article "Top 8 Breeds for Surfing.")
During each class, the priority is to ensure the dogs "feel safe and loved by their humans," notes Gercke. That means canines are always in water never deeper than waist-deep on a human, never leashed to a board, never far from the shore, and never left alone.
Generally any athletic-breed dog that enjoys running and playing (Pointer, Labrador Retriever, etc.) tends to do better at surfing. But it’s not unusual for mutts or non-athletic breed dogs to do well on the waves, too.
For example, recent top winners have been a Chihuahua, a Pug, and a Long-Haired Aussie. “One of our top surf dogs is a Labradoodle known as Derby the Goldendoodle, who is amazing,” says Gercke.
Surprisingly, a lot of surf awards have gone to bulldogs. Even though they’re big and heavy, they use their sturdy, short legs to their advantage to really lay low and hug the boards. (Read article "Top 8 Breeds for Surfing.")
Derby the Goldendoodle, a champion surfer dog, is easy to spot in a crowd thanks to his cool blue mohawk and ever-present sunglasses. (Credit: Howard Lipin, San Diego Union-Tribune)
VIDEO: Dozens of dogs and more than 1,000 people showed up for the second annual World Dog Surfing Championships (2017) in Pacifica, CA. (Credit: KQED)
Surf dog legends
Dogs have been surfing for at least seven decades before the first dog surfing competitions appeared in the early 21st century, according to the History of Dog Surfing published on the So Cal Surf Dogs website.
This resource features numerous cool images, including vintage videos at Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, spotlighting the world's first dog surfer ~ a terrier named Night Hawk ~ having fun on a surfboard alone and with owner Philip K. Auna.
In the late 1920's and 1930's, Auna and his pup were considered a legendary surfing duo and popular among the media of the day.
Moving on to the 1970's and 1980's, the article celebrates California surfers D.C. Chalmers and Max (a Terrier mix), recognized worldwide as beloved early surfing ambassadors.
B "BUDDY IS STILL CONSIDERED THE BEST SURF DOG IN THE WORLD" B
According to a surfer publication obituary about Chalmers, Max was a "scruff mutt with a bad overbite" who "surfed every major point and reef break from Long Beach to Cabo San Lucas" with D.C. They were frequently featured in major publications, TV shows and films.
Dogs have been surfing for at least seven decades before the first dog surfing competitions appeared in the early 21st century, according to the History of Dog Surfing published on the So Cal Surf Dogs website.
This resource features numerous cool images, including vintage videos at Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, spotlighting the world's first dog surfer ~ a terrier named Night Hawk ~ having fun on a surfboard alone and with owner Philip K. Auna.
In the late 1920's and 1930's, Auna and his pup were considered a legendary surfing duo and popular among the media of the day.
Moving on to the 1970's and 1980's, the article celebrates California surfers D.C. Chalmers and Max (a Terrier mix), recognized worldwide as beloved early surfing ambassadors.
B "BUDDY IS STILL CONSIDERED THE BEST SURF DOG IN THE WORLD" B
According to a surfer publication obituary about Chalmers, Max was a "scruff mutt with a bad overbite" who "surfed every major point and reef break from Long Beach to Cabo San Lucas" with D.C. They were frequently featured in major publications, TV shows and films.
Portrait of Buddy, "The Ambassador of Dog Surfing," recognized as the best all-around surfing dog who has ever lived...so far! (Credit: So Cal Surf Dogs)
The History of Dog Surfing article also highlights Bruce Hooker and his surfer pooch Buddy (a Jack Russell Terrier) of California.
Decades after this litte guy burst upon the scene, most surfing experts still consider little Buddy to be the best surf dog in the world, even years after his death.
In 2011, Buddy was the first dog to be inducted into the Surf Dog Hall of Fame.
At that time he already had been surfing at least 10 years, won countless tournaments, and made appearances on "Animal Planet," "Pet Star," ESPN, CNN, NBC, the "CBS Morning Show," etc.
Learn more about other history-making pups from this article highlighting 15 famous surfing dogs published in 2016. Profiles of a few dozen canine club members of So Cal Surf Dogs can be viewed here. Check out a few notable dogs surfing outside the USA here.
CHANGING GLOBAL DOG PERCEPTIONS
In the last 10 to 15 years, dog surfing events have been changing how people view pets...for the better.
Gercke says they not only communicate the importance of caring for orphan dogs, but also show how these amazing and wonderful creatures fit so well nto the fabric of human lives.
a "DOGS SHOULD BE LOVED AS FAMILY MEMBERS" a
"We believe dogs should be respected and loved like family members. That’s a big reason why the Center is so passionate about Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon."
Another bonus: "It’s slowly changing, but more people are now open to going to a shelter than a backyard breeder for their new pet," she adds. "That’s good for the dogs, and good for legit breeders.”
Contests Span the Globe
Since San Diego, CA, always has been a big surfing mecca, it makes sense that the world's first two foundational surf dog competitions were born here: the Loews Coronado Bay Resort’s “Ruff Riders” Small Wave Competition in August 2006; and Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon in September 2006. (The latter was created with major support from the So Cal Surf Dogs club.)
In the ensuring years, the fan base for this unique water sport has grown exponentially. Today, such events can attract up to 5,000 people plus legions of veteran and newbie surfer dogs.
Gercke loves that other organizations have copied Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon in and outside of the Golden State. "To us, it’s the highest form of flattery.”
S "FREE VIDEOS OF SURF DOG CHAMPIONSHIPS ARE JUST A CLICK AWAY" S
As of 2022, surfer dog competitions are hosted all along the California coast and in Hawaii, Florida and Texas. They’re also found in Australia, the United Kingdom, and other coastal regions far from California.
They include: World Dog Surfing Championships (Pacifica, CA), Surf City Surf Dog (Huntington Beach, CA), Imperial Beach (CA) Surf Dog, Hang 8 Dog-Surfing Contest (Flagler Beach, FL), Ohana Surf & Skate (Galveston, TX), Pups and SUPS (St. Augustine, FL) VetShopAustralia Dog Surfing Championships, and UK Dog Surfing Championships.
Relatedly, for 25 years pet food company Purina Pro Plan® has sponsored the summertime Incredible Dog Challenge. This multi-category, invite-only event for athletic dogs includes a surf dog competition held in California, as well several “Olympic-style” events (diving, pole weaving, flying disc tricks, etc.) held in various other states. The overall winner is crowned the nation’s Most Incredible Dog.
Not everyone finds its easy to fit these once-a-year contests into their travel schedules. No worries. Fortunately, free online videos uploaded by fans and media outlets alike are just a click away on the Internet.
Surfer dogs don't care how or when anyone watches them catch a wave. But if they could speak, they'd express gratitude from the bottom of their loyal little hearts of love to every person cheering them on! L
Decades after this litte guy burst upon the scene, most surfing experts still consider little Buddy to be the best surf dog in the world, even years after his death.
In 2011, Buddy was the first dog to be inducted into the Surf Dog Hall of Fame.
At that time he already had been surfing at least 10 years, won countless tournaments, and made appearances on "Animal Planet," "Pet Star," ESPN, CNN, NBC, the "CBS Morning Show," etc.
Learn more about other history-making pups from this article highlighting 15 famous surfing dogs published in 2016. Profiles of a few dozen canine club members of So Cal Surf Dogs can be viewed here. Check out a few notable dogs surfing outside the USA here.
CHANGING GLOBAL DOG PERCEPTIONS
In the last 10 to 15 years, dog surfing events have been changing how people view pets...for the better.
Gercke says they not only communicate the importance of caring for orphan dogs, but also show how these amazing and wonderful creatures fit so well nto the fabric of human lives.
a "DOGS SHOULD BE LOVED AS FAMILY MEMBERS" a
"We believe dogs should be respected and loved like family members. That’s a big reason why the Center is so passionate about Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon."
Another bonus: "It’s slowly changing, but more people are now open to going to a shelter than a backyard breeder for their new pet," she adds. "That’s good for the dogs, and good for legit breeders.”
Contests Span the Globe
Since San Diego, CA, always has been a big surfing mecca, it makes sense that the world's first two foundational surf dog competitions were born here: the Loews Coronado Bay Resort’s “Ruff Riders” Small Wave Competition in August 2006; and Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon in September 2006. (The latter was created with major support from the So Cal Surf Dogs club.)
In the ensuring years, the fan base for this unique water sport has grown exponentially. Today, such events can attract up to 5,000 people plus legions of veteran and newbie surfer dogs.
Gercke loves that other organizations have copied Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon in and outside of the Golden State. "To us, it’s the highest form of flattery.”
S "FREE VIDEOS OF SURF DOG CHAMPIONSHIPS ARE JUST A CLICK AWAY" S
As of 2022, surfer dog competitions are hosted all along the California coast and in Hawaii, Florida and Texas. They’re also found in Australia, the United Kingdom, and other coastal regions far from California.
They include: World Dog Surfing Championships (Pacifica, CA), Surf City Surf Dog (Huntington Beach, CA), Imperial Beach (CA) Surf Dog, Hang 8 Dog-Surfing Contest (Flagler Beach, FL), Ohana Surf & Skate (Galveston, TX), Pups and SUPS (St. Augustine, FL) VetShopAustralia Dog Surfing Championships, and UK Dog Surfing Championships.
Relatedly, for 25 years pet food company Purina Pro Plan® has sponsored the summertime Incredible Dog Challenge. This multi-category, invite-only event for athletic dogs includes a surf dog competition held in California, as well several “Olympic-style” events (diving, pole weaving, flying disc tricks, etc.) held in various other states. The overall winner is crowned the nation’s Most Incredible Dog.
Not everyone finds its easy to fit these once-a-year contests into their travel schedules. No worries. Fortunately, free online videos uploaded by fans and media outlets alike are just a click away on the Internet.
Surfer dogs don't care how or when anyone watches them catch a wave. But if they could speak, they'd express gratitude from the bottom of their loyal little hearts of love to every person cheering them on! L
FIND OUT MORE: For over 40 years Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon’s organizer, the nonprofit Helen Woodward Animal Center of Rancho Santa Fe, CA (San Diego County), has been offering educational and therapeutic programs for people, and humane care and adoption for animals. The Center receives no government funding and relies heavily on tax-deductible contributions from private donors to continue its life-saving mission.
KING OF SURFING DOGS: Petey, a Westie, poses with his first-place surf board trophy won at the 2021 Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon competition. He was recognized as the best surfing dog of the day, as well as the best surfing canine in the extra-small category. Read story here.
"Keeping It Together" (photo/caption by Nathan Rupert Photography).
SURF DOG ADVOCATES: Married couple Gigi Bagaporo and Doug Hokstad, here posing with fan favorite Derby the Goldendoodle, are members of So Cal Surf Dogs, a San Diego-based club for surfing dogs (e.g., SurFurs) and their owners. The group provides dog surfing lessons whose proceeds benefit the Helen Woodward Animal Center, organizer of Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon. Doug has served as the event's emcee for many years.
SURFUR PLUSH SQUEAK TOY: Adorable plush toy celebrates the cuteness and fun of dog surfing. Your pet can play with it and dream of catching waves with the dog surfers of California. Click to buy: $16.99 (sometimes on sale for $11.80).
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