ORLANDO, Fla.– (August 25, 2022) – Surf Expo, the premier watersports and coastal lifestyle tradeshow, is proud to continue its support of the Waterman’s event, an industry gala and auction that raises money for the Surf Industry Members Association’s Environmental Fund.
Waterman’s 2022 took place on Saturday, Aug. 13, at The Ranch in Laguna Beach with proceeds benefitting 15 ocean and coastal charities including Surfrider Foundation, Surfers Against Sewage, Clean Ocean Action, Heal the Bay, and the North Shore Community Land Trust.
Surf Expo has been a main sponsor of the fundraiser since it started in 1989. To date, the annual event has raised $9 million for ocean and coastal charities.
“Surf Expo has been one of the longest, major sponsors and supporters of SIMA’s annual Waterman’s celebration,” said Paul Naude, president of the SIMA Environmental Fund. “Their contributions over the years have made a significant impact to the ongoing fundraising efforts for the protection of surf spots and our ocean environment.”
The event also honors those who have positively impacted the surf industry. This year’s honorees included
- Gotcha Co-Founder Michael Tomson, Lifetime Achievement Award
- Olympic Gold Medalist Italo Ferreira, Waterperson of the Year
- Marisla Foundation Founder Anne Earhart, Environmentalist of the Year
- Marisla Foundation Executive Director Beto Bedolfe, Co-Environmentalist of the Year
“Protecting our oceans, beaches and waves is crucial not only for the surf industry, but for coastal communities around the world,” said Surf Expo Senior Vice President Roy Turner. “We are happy to support SIMA in its efforts to help the grassroots organizations that are making a difference on the ground.”
About Surf Expo
Surf Expo is largest and longest running watersports, beach and resort lifestyle tradeshow in the world. Produced twice annually in January and September and draws buyers from stores across the U.S., the Caribbean, Central and South America and around the world. The show historically features hundreds of apparel and hard goods and a full line-up of special events, education and awards ceremonies. Surf Expo is a trade-only event. Visit www.surfexpo.com for more information about the upcoming show Sept. 8-10 in Orlando, Fla.
About Emerald
Emerald is a leader in building dynamic, market-driven business-to-business platforms that integrate live events with a broad array of industry insights, digital tools, and data-focused solutions to create uniquely rich experiences. As true partners, we at Emerald strive to build our customers’ businesses by creating opportunities that inspire, amaze, and deliver breakthrough results. With over 140 events each year, our teams are creators and connectors who are thoroughly immersed in the industries we serve and committed to supporting the communities in which we operate. For more information, please visit www.emeraldx.com.
Media Contact:
Amy Dufour
Marketing Manager, Surf Expo
[email protected]