Registration opens for the fifth annual Ken Whalen Surf Challenge, a free event for beginning surfers, ages 6-16, including those with physical challenges who need adaptive surf equipment. Boards and instructors will be provided, along with food, music and games.
This year’s event runs 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 at San Fernando Court, Mission Beach.
Multiple simultaneous heats allow for up to 240 total surfers to show off their skills. Participants take part in one 15-minute heat (no advancing). Experienced high school and college-aged surfers volunteer to assist participants in the water as needed. For family members observing the heats, great music and beach games make it fun.
The event honors Mission Beach surfer, Ken Whalen, who suffered a fatal stroke at age 48. Ken grew up surfing all the local beaches, and traveled the world to enjoy other amazing surf spots. Physically challenged athletes who participated alongside Ken in triathlons inspired him. This led to his involvement with Challenged Athletes Foundation, which now provides adaptive surf equipment for challenged surfers at this event.