In 1987 at a surf contest in Grand Haven, Michigan, Oscar Wolfbrandt (Director of the Eastern Surfing Association) asked us to host a contest on our side (West Coast) of Lake Michigan. We said “sure – we’ll have one next year on Labor Day weekend.” Oscar asked, “Why Labor Day weekend?” We told him that it was the end of the summer and the beginning of our surf season (Fall). This was pre-Internet so everything was word of mouth or through surfing organization newsletters. Little did we realize what the “D-Land” would become! The Dairyland Surf Classic has become the largest gathering of freshwater surfers in the world. The main focus has always been the gathering of surfers from all the Great Lakes to share stories, photos and celebrate the passion we all share and love. Most of us have surfed many breaks around the world but this, the Great Lakes, is what we call home.
–Lee “Waterflea” Williams
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Friday, August 31
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Saturday, September 1 (All events take place at the north side beach, Deland Park)
1:30 pm
Individual Master’s Paddle Competition (16-20 yrs.)
2:00 pm
Individual Youth Paddle Competition (11-15 yrs.)
2:30 pm
Individual Kids Paddle Competition (10 yrs. & under)
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3:00 pm
Four-person Paddle Relay (at least 1 female per team)
3:30 pm
Stand-up Paddle Competition
5:00 pm
Aloha Awards Banquet and raffle at the Richardson Center Outdoor Picnic Area (located just south of beach area)
As always, this is the highlight of the day’s events. Grills and picnic tables provided. Come enjoy a night of live music, food and loads of fun celebrating awards and honors. Bring something to grill or pass. Everyone is welcome!
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Sunday, September 2 (All events take place at the north side beach, Deland Park)
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Monday, September 3 (All events take place at the north side beach, Deland Park)
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Please Note: All times are approximate. Please arrive at least 2 hours prior to your scheduled event.