Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon

Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon 2026!

Thousands of people showed up to Del Mar Dog Beach to watch over 60 dogs take to the waves as part of Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 21st annual Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon. The annual contest saw pups of all shapes, sizes, and ages take to the water and show off their special bond with their human. Unfortunately, due to rough waves caused by Tropical Storm Norbert, the contest had to conclude early, with the Best in Surf being decided by point tally rather than one final 10-minute surfing heat. Despite the somewhat anticlimactic ending, spectators and PAWticipants alike both reported having an incredible time down at Del Mar Dog Beach.

This year’s Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon saw several special contestants take the waves.

Rusty an 11-year-old miniature pinscher made his triumphant return to competitive dog surfing after suffering one of the worst year’s a dog could face. He struggled with cancer for quite some time, which kept him away from his treasured waves. Fortunately, he won his battle at the start of the year, only to be hit by a car shortly after. After months of rehab, Rusty returned to competitive dog surfing at this year’s Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon.

Faith the surfing pit bull came out of retirement this year for just this competition. The 14-year-old, goggle wearing surfing superstar had retired from the world of competitive dog surfing last year. But, the day of the comPAWtition, owner James Wall decided, to enter the surfing pitty at the last minute. Faith ended up winning second place in the medium dog category shortly before being honored in the Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon Hall of Fame.

Zeke, a three-legged catahoula leopard dog, took to the waves for the first time this year! While the rough conditions made it difficult for the little guy to catch a heat-winning wave, no one in his group had more enthusiasm! Zeke started his surf dog journey a year ago when his owner Taylor took him to the water to help any possible discomfort caused by his condition. She quickly learned that he loved the water and he loved getting on a surfboard!

VIEW PHOTOS HERE!

Results

Extra Small Dogs

Petey
Bradley Cooper
Carson

Small Dogs

Max
Iza
Rocket

Medium Dogs

Albee
Faith
Tazz

Large Dogs

Rippin Rosie
Pippa
Koa

Extra Large Dogs

Barney Bear
Rascal
Boscoe

Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon 2025!

The 20th Annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who stopped by to support this fundraising event. 💙🏄‍♂️ We had a great turnout on the beach with some amazing pets and people participating in the categories! Thank you to everyone who came out to support and to all of our amazing sponsors! We can’t wait to see you all in 2026!

Congratulations to all of our surFURs for an amazing day out there shredding waves. Your participation helps us save more lives!

Best in Surf