Canine surfers vie for the top spot at the World Dog Surfing Championships
World Dog Surfing Championships Return to Pacifica, California
The annual World Dog Surfing Championships returned to Linda Mar Beach in Pacifica, California on August 2, attracting thousands of spectators and canine participants from around the globe.
This year, two yellow labs, Rosie and Charlie, are among the competing dogs. Rosie, a 4.5-year-old, and Charlie, a 10-year-old, will participate in four and three heats respectively.
Rosie and her owner, Steve Drottar, surf together four to five times a week at home in Santa Cruz. According to Drottar, surfing with Rosie creates a unique bond, and after each competition, Rosie shows additional affection towards him, snuggling up more than normal.
Charlie, who will enter the extra-large single surfer heat, surfs with his owner, Jeff Nieboer. When Jeff sees a good wave, he turns the board around and tells Charlie to "get ready." At that signal, Jeff pushes the board forward, and Charlie rides the wave.
The competition divides dogs into size or weight-based categories, with each dog having 10 minutes to catch as many waves as possible. Judges scrutinize how long dogs remain on boards, how long they can hold their balance, and whether they perform any tricks while riding waves.
Rosie's performances in the competition will earn her medals and bragging rights. In addition to individual heats, there are also tandem heats featuring multiple dogs on one board and dogs surfing tandem with humans.
Charlie and Rosie are not the only dogs who enjoy the thrill of the competition. Additional heats feature a variety of breeds, from small Chihuahuas to large Newfoundlands, all eager to catch the perfect wave.
The World Dog Surfing Championships is more than just a competition. It also includes additional activities such as dog beach fashion contests and dog adoptions. For details on exhibitions, sponsorships, registration, and inquiries, visit the official event website.
Videos and media coverage from recent championships are available on official channels and platforms such as YouTube and major news outlets. Winners receive the prestigious "Golden Surfie Award," a symbol of their surfing prowess. The event is a celebration of the bond between dogs and their owners, showcasing their shared love for the ocean and the thrill of the surf.
Toronto is not the location of this year's World Dog Surfing Championships, which took place in Pacifica, California. The event in Toronto didn't involve Rosie, a yellow lab participating in the Championships, or her owner Steve Drottar, who surfs with her regularly at home.
