Dogs to hang 18 in Surf Dog Competition

HUNTINGTON BEACH — Canines of all breeds and sizes will hit the beach to compete in the seventh annual Unleashed by Petco Surf City Surf Dog surfing competition on Sept. 25-27.

Dog owners from near and far will descend upon Huntington Dog Beach in Huntington Beach to have their dogs battle it out on the water. The weekend-long event will feature a multi-heat dog surfing competition, a Yappy Hour Red Carpet, PAWabunga Costume Contest, Dog Surfing History Exhibit and International Surf Dog Walk of Fame.

“This event is all about having fun, whether you are participating or just hanging out and watching on the beach,” said event organizer Lisa Scolman of Book That Event, LLC. “It’s a unique experience that has something for everyone with a wide range of pup friendly activities throughout the three days.”

The weekend kicks off Sept. 25 with opening ceremonies, a red carpet with puparazzi, the PAWabunga costume contest and Yappy Hour with doggie-themed specialty cocktails. The International Surf Dog Walk of Fame will take place Sept. 26 at the International Surfing Museum where three canine inductees will be selected. The International Surfing Museum will also have an exhibit on the history of dog surfing.

The main surf dog competition is Sept. 27 where the contestants will compete in Shredder/pro heats, four weight-class divisions, as well as a tandem heats. The dogs will be judged on a variety of skills, including the duration of their ride and their confidence on the board. Marine conditions, such as the size of the wave, will also be taken into consideration. The event ends with closing ceremonies and award presentations.

Yappy Hour admission, raffle ticket sales, pledge donations and $10 from each surf dog competition registration fee will benefit the 2015 charity partners.

Pre-registration for the Surf Dog Competition is $60. Pre-register online by Sept. 22, no event day registration. For more information or to register, visit surfcitysurfdog.com.