SOUTHBAY BOARDRIDERS CLUB
On October 7, 2009, following two years of periodic lunch meetings at El Gringo in Hermosa Beach, Mike
Balzer, Derek Levy, and Tom Horton decided to stop talking about how to start a surf club and actually
take some action. (Balzer had shared his idea two years earlier, and like many good ideas, no one knew
how to get started, and doubted they had enough spare time to dedicate themselves to it). The three
invited about 50 friends to attend a meeting on November 12, 2009 at Tom & Darci Horton’s home to
share Mike’s idea of a surf club, and ask “Who’s in?”. The positive energy and vibe at that initial meeting
was so strong there was no doubt the South Bay surfing community had been waiting for a club to bring
families and friends together for fun and to give back to the community, as well as protect our beaches
and ocean environment. That evening, the birth of The South Bay Boardrider’s Club (SBBC) became a
reality, and soon after our Mission Statement was created:
“The South Bay Boardriders Club (SBBC) is dedicated to celebrating the rich history of the South Bay
surfing culture, introducing families, youth, & our community to all aspects of ocean activities and
being guardians of our local shoreline.”
Since then, SBBC has created several events and initiatives to fulfill its mission, and as we continue to
evolve, new events are likely to be introduced. SBBC also participates in events that contribute to other
mission driven organizations:
SBBC Events
- The South Bay Surf Series
- The Big Wave Challenge
- Grom O Rama
- Velzy-Stevens Pier 2 Pier Paddleboard Race
- South Bay Paddleboard Race
- Girls Surf Day
- Introduction to Outrigger Canoe Paddling
- Introduction to Scuba Diving
- Introduction to Sailing
- Introduction to Deep Sea Fishing
- Pints Above Plastics
- Beach Clean Ups
- Surfer Down – providing financial assistance to those in need
- SBBC Scholarship Fund
- Catalina Classic Commemorative Statue
Partner Organizations
- Heal the Bay “Adopt-a-Beach” (26 th St., Manhattan Beach)
- PS I Love You “Day at the Beach” – providing water safety to children
- Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation
The success of SBBC thus far is due to the dedication and support of our members, volunteers and
sponsors. Without them we would not be where we are today, and our continued growth and success
is dependent on maintaining these relationships. Thank you to everyone who has played a part, big or
small, to ensure a healthy, vibrant club.