This weekend we joined the A Walk on Water team at Malibu Pier for the kind of day that helps you remember and appreciate that the air tastes sweet and salty, that Pacific salt water feels really nice on your face, and a kid beaming ear to ear from the feeling of catching a wave is about as energizing as a thing can be.
“This is one of my favorite events, because it’s utilizing surf as surf therapy and just spreading our love and passion for surfing for all of these children,” said Courtney Conlogue, currently ranked third in the world.
“We thought how great would it be to be able to introduce surfing to families with special needs get them involved through surf therapy and introducing them to the ocean’s attributes,” said AWOW President Steven Lippman.
In another rare show of late-fall south swell, Malibu was pumping, and more than 115 young athletes caught waves with the support of some notable attendees, including Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Anthony Kiedis, Matt Costa, Courtney Conlogue, Allen Sarlo, and Haole the shred dog. Two hundred volunteers came out to help, and 40 instructors made sure each grom who participated left the ocean stoked and without a scratch.
“It’s a nice thing to be a part of,” said Anthony Kiedis. “A little reminder of gratitude and love and having each other’s back.”
Check out A Walk on Water’s website to get involved. If you have even a passing interest, we highly recommend that you do. It’ll make you smile, and anyone you come in contact with tenfold.
