Surfing star Rob Machado and Sam Day. Image by Rich Cruse/CrusePhoto.com.
The Junior Seau Foundation Adaptive Surf Program presented by Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) hosted its inaugural youth surf camp July 8-10 in Del Mar, California.
In April, the Junior Seau Foundation presented a $250,000 check to CAF to launch the program, which will provide access to surfing for kids with physical challenges, while continuing a meaningful legacy for Junior Seau.
The partnership with the Junior Seau Foundation will support CAF’s mission by giving people with physical challenges the opportunity to pursue an active lifestyle through physical fitness and competitive athletics. CAF believes that involvement in sports at any level increases self-esteem, encourages independence, and enhances quality of life.
Throughout the weekend’s camp, the kids enjoyed surfing Del Mar’s waves with expert coaching and mentorship from experienced adaptive surfers.
On Saturday, the kids were treated to the annual Switchfoot BRO-AM, an event that draws over 15,000 people to Moonlight Beach, Encinitas, for a charity surf contest and free beach concert. As part of the day’s festivities, the kids got to surf alongside surfing stars, such as Rob Machado, and members of GRAMMY® award-winning band Switchfoot.
“I’m so excited to be in San Diego for the surf camp and enjoy surfing with the other kids,” said participant Sam Day, an Oregon native who lost one leg and part of his other foot as part of his ongoing battle with bone cancer “I love the feeling of being on top of the water. It keeps me strong and gives me energy. It was an awesome weekend!”
This article was adapted from information provided by CAF.