Pups ready to compete for surf title at annual Dog Surf-a-Thon

by Linda Mcintosh

Dozens of dogs from across San Diego will be riding the waves on surfboards and competing for the top surf dog title at Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 20th annual Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon on Sept. 7 at Del Mar’s Dog Beach.

The surf-a-thon fundraiser is expected to attract roughly 50 canine contestants, some have been training on surfboards all summer. Some are still practicing getting on the board, some prefer to swim and others have all paws down for the ride.

The surf dog contestants will compete in 10-minute heats to show off their prowess on the waves in front of a panel of judges who are surf pros and aficionados. The best surf pups will get a spot on the list of “Top Surf Dogs.” Canines will be judged on the length of their ride, wave technique and enthusiasm along with confidence on the board.

First, second and third place winners will be awarded in each weight class. First-place winners move on to the finals to compete for the title Best-In-Surf. There is also the freestyle surf contest for dogs who want to share the board with their friend or show off a special trick or costume. The contest awards points for creativity.

The event includes family-friendly activities, live beach music, canine costume contest and free kid’s activity area with games and crafts. There will be a BARKet Place with pet-focused exhibitor booths, a free agility course for dogs sponsored by San Diego Pet Training, and an awards ceremony.

The dating app Hily will be there with a booth and will put on a meet-up for singles. Single men and women can stop by the Hily booth for a “My Mom/Dad is Single” bandana for their dogs to wear.

The event, presented by Blue Buffalo, is from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is free for spectators. Registration for the surf contest is $60; freestyle surf contest is $60, and canine costume contest is $20. Proceeds support Helen Woodward Animal Center’s orphan pets and programs.

Parking is at the corner of Border Avenue, Via De La Valle and Hwy. 101/Camino Del Mar for a $25 donation.

You can watch the “Best in Surf” Heat of Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon at 12:40 p.m. at facebook.com/surfdogsurfathon.