The Surfrider Foundation, a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world's ocean, waves and beaches, announced the 11th Annual International Surfing Day (ISD) taking place on Saturday, June 20, 2015. ISD is activating people across the globe to give back to the ocean and help protect and preserve its natural beauty.
“It's perfect that International Surfing Day is part of World Oceans Month,” said Dr. Chad Nelsen, CEO Surfrider Foundation. “The ocean covers over 70% of the planet and is fundamental to life on Earth it is a source of oxygen, regulates the Earth's temperature and provides a source of food. International Surfing Day is an opportunity for communities around the globe to come together and celebrate surfing and be reminded that we are all connected by the world's ocean and that it is our collective responsibility to protect it.”
Over 83 events will be taking place within the U.S. from Southern California to Northern Maine. Two of the largest events expected: Huntington Beach, with a record-breaking attempt at surfing the world's largest surfboard, featuring a beach-wide cleanup, live music and giveaways, and at the Jersey Shore, taking place at the original Ron Jon Surf Shop with live music, movie screenings and a week long beach sweep. In the past decade, ISD events have brought together over 1 million people to help clean up over 70 tons of trash and in over 30 countries.
“Surfing connects all the dots of my journey so far. The ocean has given me a catalogue of magic moments from around the world that I can at any moment close my eyes and relive,” said Sal Masekela, sports host, surfer and ocean activist. “The idea that we pollute and misuse the greatest source of life we have on this Earth should make no sense to anyone that enjoys waking up and taking a breath. Take the time to learn the little things you can do to preserve the greatest natural resource we have and share what you learn with others.”
People can support ISD by participating in an event, organizing one of their own or fundraising to aid Surfrider in efforts to defend the ocean. Event teams will be competing through fundraising to win prizes from ISD partners including JetBlue, Firewire Surfboards, Baxter of California and SPY Optic. Presenting event sponsors include Discovery Communications and Clif Bar, with additional support from Western Federal Credit Union. Full details on how to participate are available here.
