Skip to main content
News

Special Olympics Florida

Special Olympics Florida

501(c)(3)

Classification:
Preserve Surfing and Accessibility

Recipient:
Special Olympics Florida

Purpose:
Create a world of inclusion — athletes, volunteers, families, sponsors, coaches, the general public — who are willing to open our minds and hearts and provide new opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities.

Media Contact:
Jim Stratton
Director of Communications
SOFL.org

Special Olympics Florida

Special Olympics plays a vital role in fostering inclusivity, promoting physical and emotional well-being, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Special Olympics Florida was one of the first states to included surfing in their competitions. What began with a small group of athletes from Cocoa Beach in 2010 has grown significantly over the years.

Get ready to be inspired.

On August 23-24, 2024, Surfing’s Evolution and Preservation Foundation was proud to join Special Olympics Florida State Surfing Championships and their sponsors at Shepard Park in Cocoa Beach, Florida.

The conditions on the coast were perfect for the 90 athletes and their coaches who traveled from across the state of Florida. Competitors showcased their skills across four levels.

The athletes radiated joy as they expressed themselves through surfing as they kneeled, stood, or even created their own unique styles. Each ride was a chance at accomplishment and success not only for riders, but also for the coaches and guardians who found an immense amount of pride in their success.

Every competition is a special event showing support to loved ones and the strength of community even within competition. Everyone cheers for everyone. Everyone gets to have a great time. Athletes look forward the next wave they are going to ride.

Take a moment and look at the opportunities with Special Olympics Florida. This event continues to grow and there are many ways you can take part as a participant, guardian, coach, sponsor and all types of volunteers.

Get Involved with the Special Olympics: specialolympicsflorida.org/get-involved

Check out the event recap video:

The owner of the registered trademark for ENDLESS SUMMER® is Bruce Brown Films, LLC. Bruce Brown is a pioneer in the surf culture and created the classic surf documentary “The Endless Summer®”. Bruce Brown Films, LLC supports the Foundation’s goals, and has graciously allowed the Foundation to use the “Endless Summer®” name for this important fundraising and awareness effort. The Endless Summer® Florida specialty license plate,  Surfing Capital® merchandise, and Endless Summer® specialty license plate sticker were created by Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) charitable organization as a revenue source to assist with our financial quest to preserve Florida Beaches. All proceeds benefit the Foundation. Endless Summer® is a registered trademark of Bruce Brown Films, LLC and is used under license. The graphic design of the surfer on the beach at sunset is a copyrighted design owned by Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation, © 2008. SURFING CAPITAL® is a registered trademark of Ron Jon Surf Shop of Fla., Inc. THE STOKED EXPERIENCE® is a registered trademark of Surfing’s Evolution and Preservation Foundation, Inc. A copy of Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation’s official registration and financial information may be obtained from the division of consumer services by calling toll-free (800-435-7352) within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the state. Registration no# CH41137.