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NKF Rich Salick Pro-Am Surf Concludes Today

By  //  September 1, 2014

largest charity-based event of its kind

Post by Ken Carver.

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ABOVE PHOTOS BY Ken Carver and Paul Cooper

BREVARD COUNTY • COCOA BEACH, FLORIDA – The NKF Rich Salick 29th Annual Pro-Am Surf Festival, now under way at the Cocoa Beach Pier, is the largest charity-based event of its kind, featuring amateur and professional surfers from all over the world.

In 1973 Rick Salick was a professional surfer on the U.S. and World Surfing teams and his future looked very bright. Suddenly, he lost 35 pounds in two weeks and was diagnosed with kidney disease. (Image for SpaceCoastDaily.com)
In 1973 Rick Salick was a professional surfer on the U.S. and World Surfing teams and his future looked very bright. Suddenly, he lost 35 pounds in two weeks and was diagnosed with kidney disease. (Image for SpaceCoastDaily.com)

The Surf Fest has drawn thousands of spectators, and is supported by a small army of dedicated volunteers.

All of the action is taking place at the Cocoa Beach Pier in Cocoa Beach, and all proceeds will go to the NKF of Florida to support programs in patient services, research and organ donation.

Rich Salick, who died in 2012, and his identical twin brother Phil, founded the festival as a way to raise funds to help fight kidney disease and assist dialysis patients.

Increasing Awareness of Kidney Disease

This year’s festival will include professional and amateur surfing competitions; stand-up paddleboard and tandem competitions; skateboarding; karate; and entertainment.

Rich Salick’s Spirit and Legacy of Hope Lives On, 37th Annual Surf Fest Underway This WeekendRelated Story:
Rich Salick’s Spirit and Legacy of Hope Lives On, 37th Annual Surf Fest Underway This Weekend

This event, which started August 29 and concludes on Monday, has all proceeds going to the NKF of Florida to support programs in patient services, research, public and professional education. The festival also strives to increase awareness of kidney disease with an emphasis on prevention and support for organ donation.

Event Has Raised More than$5 Million For NKF

With Rich’s death, the Surf Festival has becoming even more compelling for Phil. In its 28-year history the event has raised $5 million for the National Kidney Foundation of Florida, and is the largest event of its kind for the benefit of charity. n

FOR INFORMATION LOG ON TO NKFSURF.COM