7th Annual Special Olympics Surfing Championships
Phil Edwards once said, “The best surfer out there is the one having the most fun.”
On Saturday, Sept. 17th countless surfers proved that statement to be true. The 4 foot waves rolled along the glass horizon, as kids glided across the water with grins as wide as the ocean.
The 7th Annual Special Olympics State Surfing Championships was held at Alan Shepard Park from 8:00 a.m. through 5:30 p.m. It all started in 2005 when local resident Jennifer Rowlette-Renuau’s daughter was born with down syndrome. Soon thereafter, she partnered with Ron Jon to create the Special Olympics Surfing Championships event in 2009. Her vision was to give hope to the lives of the mentally disabled and their loved ones. The event has grown from eight competitors in 2009 to 127 competitors participating this year.
Since then, the tournament has drawn attendants from more than 30 counties throughout the state. Contestants are judged on four skill levels within their age and gender groups. Level four is considered beginner surfers where contestants are pushed into waves and monitored by surf instructors. Level three is the next step up in which surfers are still aided, yet have more mobility and range. Level two surfers may have some assistance, yet are generally able to paddle into and ride down the face of waves. Level one participants have no help from instructors otherwise they are disqualified.
From booming high fives, to wet hugs and belly laughter the event encompassed unity, encouragement, and appreciation.
For 20-year-old Jason Beach this event marks his 5th year at the Special Olympics State Surfing Championships. Jason was diagnosed with a rare case of Opitz G syndrome, in which most people do not live past the age of 20. Five years ago, surfing and participating in sports was a struggle for the adolescent. Jason’s cousin Steven Curlett stated that Jason was very sensory defensive when he was younger and did not like sand or the beach. However, through constant exposure and various therapy, he is now a beach fanatic and a passionate surfer.
“Special Olympics overall has helped broaden Jason’s reality and view of the world,” said Curlett. “When he first started Special Olympics he did not think he could do some of the activities. Now he realizes he can do a lot more than he thought he could.”
Now 20 years old and active, Jason is one of the first healthy documented cases of someone with his syndrome.
Driving from Broward County to participate, was 21-year-old Flavio Chumbipuma. Ironically, when Flavio was a child doctors told him that he would never be able to communicate or drive. However, the courageous and determined young man proved them wrong as he pushed himself throughout the years and is now an avid driver, surfer and aspiring police officer.
“I feel happy here [at Special Olympics],” said Flavio. “I love surfing and I like to participate.”
Flavio’s mother Sonya explained that engaging in this event has boosted his confidence, self esteem, and motivation.
Not only do participants feel elated, but volunteers get just as deep of a joy as well. Surf coaches and local volunteers throughout the community rallied together for the significant cause.
“The excitement on their faces is something I cannot begin to comprehend,” said local volunteer Tom Gramlich. “I love being here and watching them surf. It is incredible, touching, and moving.”
As for 22-year-old competitor Katherine Broz, she maintains that Special Olympics keeps her active, excited, and involved.
“When kids are young and have disabilities there is still a tolerance to allow the girl with special needs to be on the sports team,” said Katherine’s mother Jill. “But as children get older and their skills grow beyond the special needs child, they get left out. Special Olympics is inclusive to everybody.”
Katherine’s message to other kids with disabilities is that they can do anything that they put their minds to.
Eleven years ago founder Jennifer Rowlette-Renuau would never have imagined this union of hope, pride, and teamwork. However, the ripple effect of her ambition is eminent and thriving.
“I have watched how this sport has changed the lives of kids and their families,” said Jennifer. “Not only that, but it has given me hope for my own child.”
