9:19am UK, Sunday June 17, 2012
<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ChFRXxKN-fI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
More than 50 dogs of all sizes have gathered along the shore of San Diego for an intense day
of competitive surfing. The event drew in hundreds of local citizens as well as dog surfers from
across the globe.
The seventh annual dog surfing competition, officially known as the Loews Coronado Bay
Resort Surf Dog Competition, has triggered a wave of similar dog-surfing events across
the world.
Dogs compete in 10-minute heats and are scored on their best two waves. The heats are
subdivided into three categories - small dogs, large dogs and tandem dogs.
Judges look for confidence in the four-legged surfers as well as a long wave ride and a good
sense of fashion.
This year's first place winners under the small dog category were returning champs Michael
Uy and his Australian Kelpie, Abbie Girl.
This is the third time the duo, who have been surfing for five years, took home first prize,
although Mr Uy said he did not expect the win.
The competition draws people from all over the United States - and not only tourists.
For many participants, dog surfing is a way to extend fun times on the water to man's best
friend.
Winners of the competition receive a special vacation package at the Loews Coronado Bay
Resort and snacks for their pets.
<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ChFRXxKN-fI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
More than 50 dogs of all sizes have gathered along the shore of San Diego for an intense day
of competitive surfing. The event drew in hundreds of local citizens as well as dog surfers from
across the globe.
The seventh annual dog surfing competition, officially known as the Loews Coronado Bay
Resort Surf Dog Competition, has triggered a wave of similar dog-surfing events across
the world.
Dogs compete in 10-minute heats and are scored on their best two waves. The heats are
subdivided into three categories - small dogs, large dogs and tandem dogs.
Judges look for confidence in the four-legged surfers as well as a long wave ride and a good
sense of fashion.
This year's first place winners under the small dog category were returning champs Michael
Uy and his Australian Kelpie, Abbie Girl.
This is the third time the duo, who have been surfing for five years, took home first prize,
although Mr Uy said he did not expect the win.
The competition draws people from all over the United States - and not only tourists.
For many participants, dog surfing is a way to extend fun times on the water to man's best
friend.
Winners of the competition receive a special vacation package at the Loews Coronado Bay
Resort and snacks for their pets.