The Surfrider Foundation San Diego County Chapter’s annual Paddle for Clean Water will take place 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, Sept. 24 at the Ocean Beach Pier. The paddle is a non-competitive event demonstrating support for pollution-free beaches and waterways. Participants are encouraged to bring a surfboard, kayak, body board or other human-powered craft to paddle around Southern California’s longest pier in a mass display of solidarity for the protection of our precious coastline. Paddlers are able to help raise funds at https://give.surfridersd.org/campaign/paddle-for-clean-water/c133950 to support clean water initiatives in San Diego County.
The morning’s festivities offer something for everyone – in and out of the water.  A donation-based yoga class will start the day at 8:30 a.m. on the beach, followed by a free light breakfast for all paddlers at 9 a.m. The paddle begins at 10 a.m. with hundreds of ocean-enthusiasts of all ages making their way around the pier. There will be a group photo and presence from guest speakers including Imperial Beach City Council member Mark West and Coronado City Council member Whitney Benzian. The event will be emceed by YEW’s Chris Cantore, and will feature live music from local artist Mike Pinto. Guests can also visit booths hosted by event sponsors including Coronado Brewing Company, Wonderland Pub, Cali Bamboo, Soapy Joe’s, Lazy Hummingbird and YEW.
This year’s Paddle is focused on San Diego County’s environmental growth over the past 26 years. As a community, we have come incredibly far in coastline protection and preservation, but must continue looking to the future. The 26th annual Paddle for Clean Water aims to raise awareness and educate on water quality issues revolving around the Tijuana River Valley and our coastal border communities.
Visit http://surfridersd.org/ or contact Caroline Canter at 301-648-7612 or caroline@surfridersd.org.