Dale Velzy Remembered

Dale Velzy Remembered:
20th Annual Surf Classic Named in his Honor to be Held this Weekend at Doheny


DANA POINT, Calif., September 21st, 2009 - The Doheny Longboard Surfing Associations (DLSA) annual Dale Velzy Surf Classic and Luau is a big go for this Saturday. Each year hundreds of surfers and their families gather at Doheny State Beach to honor one of surfing’s most iconic figures.

Dale Velzy’s influence on surfing is wide spread and full of colorful stories. In Malcolm Gault-Williams’ website information on Velzy he quotes several surf legend remembrances:

"Without Velzy," said surfboard shaper Donald Takayama, "there wouldn't be a modern day longboard. Basically what the shortboard people are making with the wider tails and the abruptly pulled in noses are just a takeoff on Dale's bump boards."

"We were all kamikaze pilots," said Henry Ford about the gremmies that grew to be legends, apprenticed under Velzy, "going on our last mission and Velzy ran the airport."

Dale Velzy who passed away in 2005 is a very special person in the hearts of many surfers; this is especially true to the Doheny Longboard club. The club has been honored to host this venue for many years. Dale enjoyed many things in life but mostly having fun with friends and family. It is in that spirit that the DLSA holds this annual event. The open venue has many aspects to enjoy; everything from the classic surf contest, to the luau and the Polynesian review to dancing under the stars at Doheny with a live band, and just having a great time.

“Everything is in place to make this year’s program a very special one indeed. We are all hoping for good waves and weather to round out the festivities,” said Nyles Schafhauser, DLSA President.

This year’s event kicks off with the surf contest at 6:30 a.m. The Luau festivities begin at 3:00 p.m. followed closely by the Polynesian review, awards ceremony, raffles and then on to the dancing. It’s great fun for everyone.

For Luau information, tickets and group rate discounts contact Nyles at Surfcar1@aol.com.
For Surfing event information and sign ups contact Mark Calkins at mc250c@aol.com.

About the Doheny Longboard Surfing Association
The Doheny Longboard Surfing Association is an organization comprised of individuals dedicated to the enjoyment of board surfing in a clean and natural environment. In relation to that philosophy, the DLSA will act as a support group to other organizations with similar views and objectives. PR contact: Denny Michael at dlsa10@hotmail.com