Boys to Men Mentoring Celebrates 15 Years of Surfing with a Purpose
Boys to Men Mentoring (B2M) is gearing up for its 15th Annual 100 Wave Challenge at Mission Beach on September 28. This milestone event celebrates a decade and a half of empowering young men in San Diego County. As the organization prepares for its “crystal anniversary” surf-a-thon, participants and supporters eagerly anticipate a day of surfing, camaraderie, and fundraising for a vital cause.
Founded in 2009 by Joe Sigurdson and Craig McClain, the 100 Wave Challenge was born from a vision to create a unique event that combines the exhilaration of surfing with the opportunity to support B2M’s mission. Each surfer pledges to catch 100 waves in a single day and raises funds to benefit B2M’s mentoring programs. Participants not only push their physical limits but also contribute to a cause that strengthens the community by supporting mentorship and guidance for young men facing challenges in their lives.
“This milestone year symbolizes clarity, and our vision for B2M is clearer than ever: to expand our in-school mentoring programs to every middle and high school in San Diego County within five years,” Co-Founder Joe Sigurdson shared with GB Magazine. “By participating in this year’s 100 Wave Challenge, you are not just surfing; you are providing a solution to the boys’ crisis in our country and making a lasting impact on the lives of future generations of men,” he added.
In preparation for the 100 Wave Challenge, B2M hosts summer surf nights for program participants. During these events, staff, mentors, and community supporters, such as Pacific Beach Surf Shop, help equip the boys with the skills needed for the event. Beyond surfing techniques, these sessions offer numerous mental health and physical benefits. The experience of riding the waves serves as a therapeutic and empowering way for the boys to move through their traumas and fears, providing healing and personal growth.
Over the years, the event has grown into a community-wide effort, attracting surfers of all levels, from amateurs to surfing legends like Shaun Tomson and Damien Hobgood. Local surf brands and sponsors have aligned with the cause including Dr. Bronner’s, Degree 33 Surfboards, Bird’s Surf Shed, Salty Crew, O’Neill, Kaiser Permanente, Pannikin Coffee & Tea, and more.
“The 100 Wave Challenge is more than just a surf-a-thon; it is a powerful demonstration of community and compassion,” said Shaun Tomson, World Surfing Champion and longtime supporter of Boys to Men Mentoring. “Surfing has the ability to transform lives, and through this event, we are able to support B2M in their mission to mentor and guide young men toward a brighter future,” he added.
B2M invites surfers and supporters to join their cause and make a difference. Whether it is catching waves or cheering from the shore, everyone will play a crucial role in supporting the growth and expansion of Boys to Men Mentoring’s impactful programs.
For more information on how to participate or support the 100 Wave Challenge, visit www.100wave.org.
