Everyone gets a chance to ride at Port Aransas’ inclusive surf camp, where the Surfrider Foundation helps people of all abilities make waves and memories.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A day at the beach turned into a day of possibilities as volunteers helped people of all abilities experience the thrill of surfing.
The Coastal Bend Surfrider Foundation’s annual surf camp returned to Horace Caldwell Pier, bringing together volunteers, surfers and participants for a day of fun in the sun.
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Annual Surf Camp gives all abilities a chance to ride the waves
Now in its 27th year, the event gives people of all abilities the chance to experience surfing with help from a community of volunteers who make the day possible.
“We’re out here to have fun. That is why we’re out here. All of these volunteers and everything, none of this would be possible without all of these folks donating their time to come out here and make this happen,” said Cliff Schlabach, co-chair of the Coastal Bend Surfrider Foundation.
Schlabach said the excitement is contagious, with both participants and volunteers enjoying the experience.
“They get really excited about this, so do all the volunteers. Hard to tell the difference between who’s having the most fun, whether it’s the volunteers or the participants,” said Schlabach. “So it is a great program, one of the most uplifting programs that you’ll ever take part in, and it guarantees miles of smiles.”
The surf camp started in 1999 and originally focused on helping blind and vision-impaired participants experience surfing. Over the years, it has grown to welcome people with a variety of abilities.
Schlabach said safety is always a top priority, and the event is built around making sure everyone feels welcome.
“Anyone that shows up, we’re gonna put a life jacket on them, make sure that they’re safe. We’re going to surround them with plenty of surfers, water men, and water women that know what they’re doing. And so because of that, we feel confident on taking anybody and we welcome everybody,” said Schlabach.
With dozens of volunteers showing up each year, Schlabach said the event continues because of the teamwork behind it and the shared love of helping others catch a wave.
If you would like more information on when you can catch a wave at the next Surf Camp, follow the Coastal Bend chapter of the Surfrider Foundation’s Facebook page.
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