News Summary
Huntington Beach is gearing up for the U.S. Open of Surfing, featuring not only the thrilling competitions but also the annual Surfer’s Hall of Fame induction. Scheduled for August 1, this ceremony will celebrate new legends in surfing, including world champion Caroline Marks, renowned surf photographer Tom Servais, and local hero Dwight Dunn. The event is open to the public, making it a great opportunity for fans to engage with the surfing community and honor its icons.
Excitement Waves as Huntington Beach Prepares for Surfer’s Hall of Fame Induction
Huntington Beach is set to become the center of the surfing world as the 2023 Lexus U.S. Open of Surfing rolls into town from July 26 to August 3. This annual event draws elite surfers from across the globe, all vying for the title of champion and a place in surfing history.
A Week of Surf, Sun, and Fun
The U.S. Open promises more than just thrilling surfing competitions. Throughout the week, surf enthusiasts can look forward to a filled schedule of surf-related events and activities that cater to the whole family. From surf clinics to beach games, this weeklong celebration is designed to foster a love of surfing among newcomers and veterans alike.
Mark Your Calendars for August 1
One of the event’s most exciting highlights is the annual Surfer’s Hall of Fame (SHOF) induction ceremony, set to take place on August 1 at 9 a.m.. This special moment will unfold right in the middle of the action at Surfer’s Hall of Fame Plaza, located at the southeast corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Main Street, just a stone’s throw away from Huntington Surf & Sport and the iconic Duke Kahanamoku statue.
Best of all, admission to this much-anticipated ceremony is free and open to the public, making it an inviting opportunity for all surf fans to witness the induction of new legends into the world of surfing.
This Year’s Inductees Shine Bright
This year, the ceremony is set to honor an impressive lineup of inductees that includes:
- Caroline Marks: A world champion and Olympic gold medalist who has lit up the surfing scene with her exceptional talents.
- Tom Servais: A renowned surf photographer known for capturing those breathtaking moments we all cherish.
- Dwight Dunn: A local hero and standout surfer from Huntington Beach, whose contributions to the surf community run deep.
A Brief History of the Hall of Fame
The Surfer’s Hall of Fame was founded back in 1997 by Aaron Pai, a dedicated surfer and a beloved figure in the community. Inspired by the famous Grauman’s Chinese Theater, which features handprints of Hollywood stars, the SHOF was designed to honor surf legends. Originally, surfers’ hand and foot prints were displayed inside Huntington Surf & Sport but later made their permanent home in the plaza.
This event has transformed into a family affair, with Aaron Pai’s family actively participating in its ongoing success. The plaza itself is a must-see for visitors, where they can compare their own hand and foot sizes against those of their surfing idols. Each year, surf fans flock to the area to feel connected to the legends who shaped the sport.
An Event for Everyone
Past inductees boast an all-star lineup, including surfing icons like Laird Hamilton, Kelly Slater, and Andy Irons. The induction ceremony is a lively gathering where surf celebrities often appear, creating some unique opportunities for fans to meet and mingle with their heroes.
With a deep sense of camaraderie and excitement, the induction event captures the spirit of the surfing community, showcasing not only the legends being honored but the vibrant culture that connects surfers and fans alike.
Join the Celebration
If you’re anywhere near Huntington Beach during the U.S. Open, make sure to stop by the Surfer’s Hall of Fame Plaza on August 1. Engage in the festivities, honor the inductees, and soak in the incredible atmosphere of this water-loving community. Who knows? You may find yourself inspired to catch your own wave!
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Additional Resources
- OC Register: Corky New Hall of Fame Inductions Planned in Surf City
- Wikipedia: Huntington Beach
- Beach Grit: Former USA Surfing CEO Burns Huntington Beach to the Ground
- Google Search: Huntington Beach Surfing
- Surfer: Sharks Breach Huntington Beach Surf Contest
- Google Scholar: Huntington Beach Surfing
- LA Times: Jack’s Surfboards Pro Surfing Event Returns This Weekend in Huntington Beach
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Surfing
- Surfer Today: Surfing at LA 2028: Lower Trestles or Huntington Beach for the Olympics
- Google News: Huntington Beach Olympics
