International Surfing Day + Father's Day: A weekend full of gratitude

Surfing and Father’s Day! For me, the two go hand-in-hand. It only seems appropriate that International Surfing Day and Father’s Day fall on the same weekend.

My dad introduced me to surfing at a very young age. I’d watch him surf from the comfort of the tide pools until I was ready to try for myself. He pushed me into my first waves on a 4’11” single fin Bing egg. The board was so wide I couldn’t fit it under my arm. So, I’d carry it on my head down the trail to our local surf spot, dodging sand spurs and so excited to go surfing with my dad.

Since then, surfing has remained an integral part of my life. I’ve based pretty much all of my major life decisions around surfing, and to this day it’s never led me wrong. It’s taken me around the world, allowed me to connect with some amazing people, brought me to meet the love of my life, and has taught me a whole lot about myself and what I’m made of.

But still, the most special surfing memories I hold are the sessions I’ve spent sharing waves with my dad. It’s kept us close throughout the years and given us a bond that can never be broken.

Thank you, Dad, for giving me the gift of a beautiful life and for introducing me to the amazing world of surfing. I am forever grateful for the time we spend together and for this connection we share. I love you and I can’t wait to see you so soon!

Thanks to Joe Leahy from Life in Pursuit for the amazing video. It literally brings tears to my eyes every time I watch it.