Charlie, a spirited 10-year-old yellow Labrador, has an undeniable passion for surfing. So strong is his enthusiasm that his owners often have to hide his surfboard to prevent him from darting towards the waves, particularly when they want to enjoy conversations with friends on the beach.
Last Saturday, Charlie joined a lively gathering of about 15 to 20 dog surfers at the World Dog Surfing Championships in Pacifica, California, just 22 kilometres south of San Francisco. This annual event attracts thousands of spectators to Pacifica State Beach. During the competition, the dogs were grouped based on size, battling for a spot in the finals. Heats also included thrilling tandem rides, where dogs surfed alongside their human partners.
Various breeds, including labs, terriers, and spaniels, donned colourful life vests as they paddled into the Pacific. With cheers from the enthusiastic crowd, owners helped their furry companions jump onto their boards and ride the waves. Judges closely evaluated each performance based on the duration and balance maintained on the board, as well as any tricks displayed, such as turning while riding.
Charlie, who boasts his own Instagram account, competed in the extra-large single surfing category and also participated in a tandem event with two other dogs, dubbed “The Dream Team.” He clearly revelled in the attention, as his owner, Maria Nieboer, noted, “He loves the crowd.”
Charlie’s surfing adventure is a team effort that involves plenty of practice with his husband, Jeff Nieboer. When a good wave approaches, Jeff turns the board and cues Charlie to prepare. As they head towards the wave, Charlie positions himself and rides it skillfully, even steering towards Maria waiting on the shore. Impressively, he doesn’t require treats for motivation; as Jeff put it, “Charlie does what Charlie wants to do once we’re in the water.”
Winners of the competition were awarded medals and, of course, bragging rights. Among the competitors was Rosie, another yellow lab and one of Charlie’s crew members. She participated in four heats, with her owner, Steve Drottar, expressing that surfing together reinforces their bond. He described the joint experience as immensely fulfilling, stating, “It’s like, hey, we actually did something today, right? We did something together as a team.”
Steve observed Rosie’s increased happiness post-surfing, noting her delighted tail-wagging and affectionate snuggles. “It feels like she’s saying, ‘Thank you,’” he concluded, highlighting the deeper connection formed through their aquatic adventures.