The annual Surf Park Awards concludes the yearly Surf Park Summit and highlights people and organizations who positively impact the industry. The awards focus heavily on key elements of the surf park industry that are the pillars of creating a stronger future for surfing outside the ocean.
Three main categories include sustainability, innovation and accessibility. Additionally, Surf Park Central hands out a leadership award that goes to an individual who has a positive lasting impact on the industry. Finally, this year we added a People’s Choice Award, which was done with a live vote at the event after watching each finalist’s presentation. The award allowed for one more organization or person to be honored.
Here’s a look at each category and this year’s winners:
Sustainability – The Wave, Bristol
The surf park industry has the potential to create a significant positive impact on the environment and society, and it is essential to recognize those who are making strides towards sustainability and a positive impact. This category recognizes the efforts of those who are contributing to the creation of environmentally conscious surf parks, reducing their carbon footprint, and implementing sustainable practices in their operations. Additionally, the category celebrates the impact of these surf parks on their local communities as they work towards building a sustainable future for the surfing community.
Innovation – VVater
Innovation is at the heart of the surf park industry, with new technologies and ideas constantly emerging to provide surfers with unique and exciting experiences. The Innovation Award applauds those individuals and organizations who are driving this industry forward through their innovative ideas and practices. This category is meant to recognize those who are shaping the future of the surf park industry by continuously exploring new possibilities and striving for excellence in all aspects of technological development, enhancing the guest experience, and operating practices.
Accessibility – “Surf Therapy” by Cash Lambert
The democratization of access award category recognizes the importance of inclusivity in the surfing community and celebrates those who are working towards making the sport accessible to everyone, helping to remove the barriers that have traditionally made it difficult for individuals from landlocked regions or marginalized communities to participate in the sport. This award category recognizes the parks and organizations within our industry that are breaking down these barriers and providing opportunities for people from all walks of life to experience the thrill of surfing, regardless of access or ability. This category celebrates the surf parks that prioritize accessibility by providing affordable, safe, and inclusive facilities that cater to diverse populations.
Leadership – Damon Tudor, Thinking Adrenaline and former CEO of URBNSURF
The Summit Leadership Award celebrates an individual or company in the surf park industry who has demonstrated a vision, passion, and innovation that has led to exceptional contributions towards advancing the development and growth of the industry. This award acknowledges this company’s or individual’s ability to inspire others and to drive change through their visionary ideas and relentless pursuit of excellence. The Leadership Award serves as a testament to their impactful and transformative leadership in the surf park industry.
People’s Choice – EpicSurf
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