Get ready to ride the waves and celebrate community spirit at the 26th Annual Rell Sunn Surf Contest & Benefit, making its much-anticipated return to Montauk this Saturday, July 13. This cherished event, a cornerstone of Montauk’s summer traditions, promises a day filled with fun, remembrance, and community connection at the picturesque Ditch Plains Beach.
The event kicks off at 8:00 AM with a heartfelt memorial paddle-out, a tradition that honors the memory of surfers who have passed away. Participants will paddle out into the ocean and scatter flowers on the water, creating a moving tribute to friends and loved ones no longer with us.
Named after the legendary Rell Sunn, this benefit celebrates the remarkable legacy of the Hawaiian-born world champion who revolutionized women’s surfing. Sunn’s passion and dedication to the sport led her to establish the Women’s Professional Surfing Association and the first women’s pro surfing tour. Her influence extended far beyond her competitive success in the mid-1960s to the early 80s, making her a symbol of empowerment for women everywhere.
In addition to thrilling surf contests, the event will feature an art auction, a raffle with fantastic local prizes, and exclusive Rell Sunn 26 merchandise for sale. It’s a day designed not only for surfers but for the entire community to come together, have fun, and support worthy causes.
This year, the proceeds will benefit the Concerned Citizens of Montauk (CCOM) and the Montauk Food Pantry. Historically, funds raised have supported local Montauk families in need, a tradition that will resume next year as the event transitions to a new nonprofit host. Roger Feit, one of the benefit’s founders and a longtime Montauk resident, expressed gratitude to CCOM for stepping in to keep the event alive this year. “Without them, we would not have been able to maintain this beloved tradition,” he said.
Kay Tyler, executive director of CCOM, echoed this sentiment: “We are honored and humbled to participate in such an iconic community event. Thank you, Roger Feit and Alice Houseknecht, for founding this event and running it for 25 years. We wish the current committee much success for another 25 years and beyond!”
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a meaningful and exhilarating community event. Join us in celebrating the spirit of Rell Sunn, the joy of surfing, and the strength of the Montauk community.
See you at the beach!
