Huntington Beach Mayor Joe Carchio handed over the key to Surf City to Kelly Slater, the 10-time ASP World Surf champion, on Tuesday.
Slater is a hero to surfing enthusiasts around the world from grommets (young surfer) to pioneers of the “sport of Hawaiian Kings.”
“Huntington has been a big part of my life growing up,” Slater said. “I spent endless hour as a teenager surfing the north side throughout the summer and south side during events. I had my first chance to surf against my hero, Tom Curren, at age 13 or 14 here in the Katin (surf contest). The city is a big part of surfing and so much of its history. I’m honored to be recognized here amongst so many of surfing’s greats over the years.”
The city of Huntington Beach recognized Slater’s exceptional accomplishments in the world of surfing both on and off the turf. Slater, having competed at surfing events in Huntington Beach for nearly 30 years, continues to return each summer to compete in the US Open of Surfing.
He is committed to protecting the world’s oceans and its marine inhabitants, using his influence and status to educate the public about important environmental issues. Additionally, the U.S. House of Representatives recognized Slater nationally with a (unanimous) bipartisan resolution passed in May 2011, recognizing his outstanding and unprecedented achievements in the world of surfing and for being an ambassador of the sport and excellent role model.
Pete Townend emceed the ceremony at 6 p.m. at Main Street and Pacific Coast Highway in downtown Huntington Beach during the Surf City Nights events.