The Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA) Environmental Fund estimates more than $450,000 was raised for ocean-environmental organizations during the 17th annual Waterman’s Weekend environmental fundraiser, August 4-5, 2006, at The St. Regis Resort & Spa in Dana Point, Calif.
“SIMA is confident that we have met the ambitious goal set by the SIMA Environmental Fund Board of Directors of raising $450,000,” said Paul Naudé, chairman of the SIMA Environmental Fund and CEO of Billabong USA. “Actually, we believe we have exceeded that goal and the question well be working to answer this week is by how much. SIMA is greatly appreciative of all the sponsors and attendees who made the Waterman’s Weekend a phenomenal success and allows us to grant substantial funds to projects that will have a tangible and measurable effect on protecting and preserving our oceans. The surf industry has a genuine commitment to protecting the oceans waves that are crucial to our businesses. As we continue to experience growth in our industry, we hope the surf industry will continue to support the very deserving Waterman’s Weekend environmental beneficiaries.”
The proceeds raised will be distributed in the form of grants to 13 environmental organizations selected by the SIMA Environmental Fund Board of Directors based on their commitment of funds to specific projects that will protect and preserve oceans, beaches and/or surf breaks. The 2006 SIMA Environmental Fund grant recipients are: Surfrider Foundation, Ocean Institute, Wildcoast, Heal the Bay, Orange County CoastKeeper, Surfing Education Association, Alaska Wilderness League, Seymour Marine Discovery Center, Algalita Marine Research Foundation, Save the Waves Coalition Reef Check, KAHEA, SINADES.
In addition to raising funds for the environment, the 850 Waterman’s Ball attendees paid tribute to some of the surf industry’s most influential people. This year, SIMA honored Quiksilver’s Bob McKnight as Waterman of the Year for his leadership and ongoing dedication to the surf industry and for exemplifying all things surf. Surfer and recording artist Jack Johnson and his wife, Kim, were honored as Environmentalists of the Year for their commitments to saving the North Shore of Oahu from development, as well as for always sharing the importance of caring for and respecting the environment through Jack’s music and environmentally-friendly tours. Legendary Waikiki Beach Boy Rabbit Kekai was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for inspiring and impacting the growth and development of surfing’s greatest athletes.
“Bob, Jack, Kim, and Rabbit have all inspired us and left an indelible mark on the surf industry, earning everyone’s respect,” said Dick Baker, president of SIMA and president of Op. “The evening was a great way for the industry to say thank you for their commitment to surfing and our oceans.”
The SIMA Environmental Fund is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation formed by the Surf Industry Manufacturers Association to provide support in the form of grants to environmental organizations. The annual Waterman’s Weekend serves as the primary fundraiser for the SIMA Environmental Fund through the Waterman’s Classic Golf Tournament and Waterman’s Ball and Auction. More than 160 golfers turned out for the Waterman’s Classic on August 4 at the Monarch Beach Golf Links. The Waterman’s Ball and Auction on August 5 attracted more than 850 people and filled the ballroom of The St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort & Spa to capacity.
