Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. (Aug. 29, 2024) – It’s almost here! Throughout the summer, top surf-dog contenders and aspirational groMUTTS have been gearing up to compete at the longest-running surf dog competition in the country. Now surFURs can hardly wait to fetch a wave at the ultimate summer-closer. Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 19th annual Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon, presented by Blue Buffalo, dives into action at Dog Beach Del Mar on Sunday, September 8th, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. PST.
Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon was the first-of-its-kind, turning ‘dogs on surfboards’ into a platform to raise life-saving funds and remind the world that “man’s best friend” can do phenomenal things. In addition to the joy and amazing athleticism of the event, Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon is the only one of its kind where 100% of the proceeds go directly to supporting orphan pets and programs.
Del Mar Dog Beach is the place to be to witness the cutest surf competition of the year. Hoping to join a coveted list of “Top Surf Dogs,” approximately 50 surfing dogs will compete in 10-minute heats. SurFURs will show off their skills before a panel of judges consisting of surf pros and aficionados. Canines will be judged on the length of their ride, wave technique, and enthusiasm and confidence on the board. First, second, and third place winners will be awarded for each weight class – with first-place winners moving on to the finals to compete for the crowing title – Best-In-Surf. For those who want to share the board with their friend, or show off a special trick or costume, a unique freestyle surf contest will award points for creativity! (Prizes provided by Helen Woodward Animal Center and Blue Buffalo.)
“The Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon is definitely a crowd-pleaser every year,” said Center Special Events Manager Eva Lagudi-Devereux. “Anyone who loves a dog knows that they have talents and abilities beyond explanation. This event just proves it!”
Attendees can look forward to other family-friendly activities throughout the day, including live beach tunes; the crowd-pleasing Canine Costume Contest (2024 theme is Classic Americana); a FREE special Kid’s Activity area – with crafts and games; the BARKet Place featuring a variety of pet-focused exhibitor booths; a free agility course for dogs, sponsored by San Diego Pet Training; a special ceremony to recognize Surf Dog legend and fundraiser – Samson; and the exciting awards ceremony! Those who cannot make it to the beach can watch the Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon unfold on Facebook by heading to https://www.facebook.com/surfdogsurfathon/ at 8:30 a.m. PST.
Registration is still available for surf-loving canines to enter the surf and freestyle contests. 100% of the proceeds from the event support the life-saving work at Helen Woodward Animal Center. Top fundraising pooches not only get to help orphan pets, they will also win outstanding prizes.
The 19th Annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon is free to attend. Parking will be available at the corner of Border Avenue / Via De La Valle and Hwy. 101 / Camino Del Mar for a $20 donation.
For more information or to register head to https://animalcenter.org/surf-dog-surf-a-thon/ or call 858-756-4117 ext. 362.
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About Helen Woodward Animal Center
Helen Woodward Animal Center is a private, non-profit organization where “people help animals and animals help people.” Founded in 1972 in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., the Center provides services for more than 90,000 people and more than 10,000 animals annually through adoptions, educational and therapeutic programs both onsite and throughout the community. Helen Woodward Animal Center is also the creator of the International Home 4 the Holidays pet adoption drive, the International Remember Me Thursday® campaign and The Business of Saving Lives Workshops, teaching the business of saving lives to animal welfare leaders from around the world. For more information, go to: https://animalcenter.org.
