The Surfrider Foundation of the Coastal Bend held their 19th Annual Surf Camp for the Disabled event on Sunday June 24, as their kick off to hitting the waves.
The foundation is a conservation organization that helps with beach clean ups and advocating protection for the environment. This is event is one of the biggest for the foundation and always brings a lot of excitement.
During the weekend, each of these ‘campers’, or people with disabilities, have volunteers and a team to help them get on the water safely.
With surfboards provided by Texas Surf Camps, the Surfrider Foundation of the Coastal Bend, is able to bring over a dozen people out on the water. This year, about 15 campers from Oklahoma came down to Port Aransas to catch some waves. Cliff Schlabach, the chapters Chairman says, “you see miles of smiles today and if you’ve ever heard of the word stoked, this defines that word.”
One person in particular who is definitely stoked, is Chris Kemp. He’s a quadriplegic, who was told that he would never walk again and not make it very far. But, against all the odds, Kemp proved everyone wrong. When he found the event on Facebook, Kemp knew he wanted to be a part of it. It was his first time in Port Aransas and his first time hitting the wave.
Beginning at 6 p.m. on Beach at Avenue G in Port Aransas, the 2nd part of the event will be taking place.
There will be a ‘mock competition’ for the campers who will then be presented with trophies after the event.
Surfrider Foundation of the Coastal Bend are asking for more volunteers for Monday, to learn more you can find info on their Facebook Page.
Volunteers are welcome, no surf experience required.
The event is open to anyone with disabilities.
