Press Release:
Encinitas, CA – Eleven years ago, New Zealand physician, Dr. Dave Jenkins, went on a surf charter to the Mentawai Islands (located off the coast of West Sumatra, Indonesia) with one goal in mind: to find the perfect wave. The waves proved to be everything Dr. Dave had hoped for, but he was also struck by the needless suffering and preventable death faced by the indigenous Mentawai people. The trip proved to be the inspiration that led to the creation of SurfAid International; a non-profit humanitarian organization that has been instrumental in providing basic health care, malaria prevention, clean water and on going health education programs to the people of the Mentawai Islands. The organization, which is based out of Australia, houses its US headquarters in Encinitas, CA.
As part of its ongoing domestic fundraising efforts SurfAid International will be hosting the 3rd Annual Watermans Applied Science Paddle for Humanity on Saturday, April 30, 2011 at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point. This weekends event is the first of a three event series that includes Deerfield Beach Fl on June 4th and Washington DC on Aug 20th and is part of a continuing partnership with Waterman’s Applied Science who founded the event concept. The Paddle for Humanity brings together the paddling community for a six-mile elite race and a two-mile fun paddle to rasie awareness for SurfAids and to raise funds to support their mission. The elite race is sanctioned by the World Paddle Association and recognizes divisions in both paddleboarding and stand up paddle (SUP).
“It is humbling to see how the paddling community has rallied in support of SurfAid and how many companies have stepped up in support of the event.” Said Rob Farrow of SurfAid. “We are stoked on the number of participants and their efforts to fundraise on behalf of SurfAid through the race.”
In addition to the race, there will be a beach expo, demos and a raffle featuring the latest in products from event sponsors: Watermans: Applied Science, Infinity Surfboards, Rogue SUP, SUP Company, Quickblade Paddles, Sambazon, Kona Brewing Co., Toes on the Nose, King’s Paddle Sports, Mix1 and Sticky Bumps.
The Paddle for Humanity starts at 8:00am on the beach at Doheny State Beach. Pre-register online for $50 or register on event morning (if not sold out) starting at 6:30am for $65.
Register for the event at www.paddleforhumanity.org or call SurfAid at 760-753-1103.
About SurfAid International
SurfAid International is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the health, wellbeing and self-reliance of people living in isolated communities connected to us through surfing. In partnership with communities and government, SurfAid works to prevent disease, suffering and death through educational programs that aim to change poor health behaviors and reduce the risk from natural disasters. SurfAid’s goal is to empower communities to help themselves and build local capacity so their improved health resilience is sustainable. To learn more about SurfAid go to www.surfaidinternational.org or call 760-753-1103.
About Watermans Applied Science
WATERMANS®: APPLIED SCIENCE stands committed to providing quality sun protection products to those individuals for whom life in the shade is not an option. They offer the best, most effective and functional, high-performance sunscreens on the market, specifically designed for high-intensity water and endurance athletes. Their sunscreen is formulated to stand up to the rigorous demands of an active life in the sun, wind and water. Their goal: to ensure a day in the sun doesn’t mean a lifetime of dealing with the consequences. To learn more about Watermans go to www.watermansappliedscience.com or call 949-596-0080.
