Testimonials

To Surf Camp,

My two hours of instruction there last year had been a lifetime dream come true and how great it would be to get some more time on a board. And it's true: after my waiting nearly 40 years to try surfing, Surf Camp really did make it possible for me to quickly stand up on a board. It was a big, big high. I felt serene and excited at the same time. And I loved the juxtaposition between the smooth, moving-with-the-wave approach to shore and the monster power of the ocean behind -- the opposite of water skiing, with its violent mortion forward and across the wake, and then the total calmness of the water beneath.

I'm having trouble saying that even though I fairly quickly put my June 2004 Surf Camp adventure behind me as "Mission Accomplished," I must admit that for the last few weeks, I have thought of nothing much else besides how I should move forward with surfing. Challenge myself in an even bigger way to stick with it, put in some hours.

It's harder to move at age 50 than even at 40, so the challenge is real. It's a lifetime decision every day now: how hard to push myself physically in order to grow and learn in other ways. The easy thing would be to let the deadline go by and forget about the contest...no risk, and definitely easier on the body. But I'm going for it: If I win a week at Surf Camp I promise I will get my butt back down to Wrightsville Beach and work.

Thanks for everything,

Nan C. - North Carolina

Dear Surf Camp,

A Swimmer's First Wave!

Last summer I had the the awesome oppertunity to take a lesson with Surf Camp. I'm not sure what I expected , but what I discovered was an incredible experience!
It was a pretty hot day and the instructor wasn't bad either! (It does make for a more pleasant lesson, let's face it! ) Although my instructor was laid back, he taught me the right techniques of surfing and was proud and enthusiastic of my every attempt at catching my first wave!

When you try something new, often you can feel awkward and out of place, but at Surf Camp you are always made to feel comfortable and at ease. Did I mention how totally exciting it was to catch my first wave?!?!

I have been a swimmer most of my life (my swim team was even named the Waverunners!) but my first real surfing experience with Surf Camp reminded me of the first time I mastered my stroke, the butterfly and how great it made me feel! Surf Camp cared about making sure I learned "the right way" and that I had a blast doing it! Thanks guys! Surfs up!

-Claire L.
Greensboro, North Carolina

Dear Surf Camp,

When I think of my memories at Surf Camp this past summer, a big smile comes to my face. This was certainly the highlight of my year. Whenever I walk into my bedroom and see my blue surf board propped up against the wall, it reminds me that in four more months I will have the time of my life again at Surf Camp in North Carolina.

When I arrived at Surf Camp, I had only surfed the summer before at the Jersey shore. Although I was nervous and shy, I quickly made friends with other teenagers who came from up and down the east coast. We sat in a circle on the pavement and got to know each other. That same day, I made a special connection with Arielle from New York, and often when it's cold outside, I sit at my computer and we reminisce about the special times at Surf Camp. Sometimes when I'm bored I visit the Surf Camp website to bring back special memories.

The first day was upsetting because it rained, but we ended up having a ping-pong tournament and watching surfing videos. The next day we finally surfed! I felt scared at first; these were the biggest waves I had ever surfed. Thanks to Joel, or as I called him Papa Joel, he pushed me about five feet over the waves. After I caught my first wave, I couldn't wipe the smile off my face. The next day, I continued to smile when Ryan complimented me on my "pop-up" and asked me, "Are you a professional?"

Even when we weren't surfing, we had a good time. We actually lived in dorms on a college campus. For dinner, Rick, "the owner", took us to all his favorite restaurants. Another favorite time is when we all went deep sea fishing, and I will never forget catching a shark, with the help of Kenny. One of the days we visited a sea turtle hospital,and a very wise older woman told us a story about each individual turtle. We even met professional surfers and took pictures with them.

Before I knew it, it was the last day. Fortunately that day had the picturesque type of waves. I was so proud of myself for catching all the waves without any help from the counselors. All the counselors were in the water with us, screaming out "Walk the nose" and giving us the hang loose sign. It was nice to see the counselors, Kieth, Joe, Joel, Kate Ryan, David, Sean, Kenny, and Jen, in the water having a good time. We were all enjoying ourselves and then the next thing we knew, our surfing time was over. I got to my room and quickly put some clothes on and threw all my things into my suitcase; I idn't even have time to shower. At the final ceremony, I received my beloved Surf Camp shirt and my folder filled with knowledgeable information, I started to cry my eyes out. I didn't want to leave- I had so much fun that words cannot express my feelings about this life-changing experience.

Only four more months…then Surf Camp

See you soon, Diana S. - NY

Dear Surf Camp,

It seems every piece of advice given to a recovering soul points a wonderer to “live life.” For me, last summer, I found a little piece of meaning in that oft-used prescription at Surf Camp in Wrightsville Beach. My close friend and I headed east where we were met by the lightness of enthusiastic personalities, our surf instructors. They loved their sport and wanted us to love it too. Contagious as passionate energy is, we practiced a couple unbridled surf runs on the shore before merging into the water for the real thing.

We were taught how to kick, how to stand, how to hold on. And we were taught about Rip Currents, when we needed to stop fighting and angle around the force in order to be safe. Floating on my board in the early morning light and waiting for a wave, I thought about how timidity can hold you back and fear can freeze personal redefinition. But only if you let it. And not when you’ve got someone or something to help you find your way. Then, at that moment, the surf is yours for the taking.

-Nancy McGillicuddy
Greenville, NC

Dear Surf Camp,

Many thanks to everyone at Surf Camp. From the person who took our reservations (and gave us directions!) to the instructors, thanks again. My daughter and son (12 & 19) and my nephew (13) are still talking about their surfing lesson experience last summer. (we still have some of the pictures as our computer screen saver). All three kids were on different levels and were given individual attention even though it was a group lesson. The experience with Surf Camp was something that I know they will remember and relish, even when they become adults…

Thanks so much..

Regards,

C. Demarco

Winston Salem, North Carolina

Dear Surf Camp,

Wow, How do you even begin to describe the most amazing week of your life? I wanted to go to learn how to surf more than anything in the world, it was my passion. So I searched the internet and looked for programs online, I came across Surf Camp and it looked like an amazing program. My parents were very supportive on sending me to North Carolina to send a week to learn how to surf, but I had to pay for the camp with my own money.

I wanted to learn how to surf SOOOOOOOOOOO badly that I worked so hard to earn the money to pay for the last spot in the program. I was so stoked for Surf Camp I was counting down the days until I was to arrive in North Carolina. About a month before surf camp happened, I broke my wrist long boarding on my sector nine skate board. That still didn't stop me from going to NC and fulfilling my dream to surf.

The first day at Surf Camp was amazing; Rick is the SICKEST GUY EVER! He made everyone feel really comfortable with everyone within seconds. Rick, Kenny, Keith, Ryan, Will, Jen, Kate, Joel and Joe created such relaxed atmosphere I felt like I had known the people I was in the room with for months. Everyone at Surf Camp was relaxed, fun, nice, welcoming, and all there for the same reason, to learn to surf the right way.

I don't even know how to begin to thank Kenny, Keith, Ryan, Will Jen, Kate, Joel, and Joe. Not only did you guys teach us to surf the right way, but you guys became our friends and got to know us as people. It was so awesome to chill with you guys and surf with you guys. It was amazing to go from doing a push up on the board on dry land, to actually doing a push up on the board and surfing that first wave. What was reallyunbelievable about Surf Camp was that we got surf lessons everyday almost twice a day. I can still remember going out with Ryan to surf on my first day that was the best day of my life. By the end of the day, I was standing up and surfing all the way into the beach. We got to go to so many different surf locations, and surf islands, it was incredible.

I think that the best part about the Surf Camp program was that we not only did we get to surf and learn the right way to surf, but we got to experience so many other activities. We got to go on a DEEP SEA FISHING TRIP! I've never in my life experienced something so thrilling! Then we took a night time beach walk with Rick who told us all about sea turtles and why they are in danger. The following day we got to go to the sea turtle hospital. That was one of the most inspiring places I've ever gone to. It inspired me to care for the ocean and my environment, and to make people aware of sea turtles and what they do to our ocean. We also got to explore many different ecosystems which was so cool. My camp experience also included meeting the Pro Billabong team and getting my cast signed by the crew, I was so ampted I could barely speak.

Surf Camp was the best week of my life. I made life long friends from all over the United States that I'm still in touch with till this day. I bought my board in North Carolina from Surf City, the day that Surf Camp was over, and I have been surfing ever since. Surfing is the best thing I have in life, and I couldn't have asked for a better way to learn. Thank you so much Rick for everything. You have put together an amazing program, and I admire and thank you so much for what you have done. The experience I had was priceless. And I can't wait to hear Kenny Laugh again! Hahahah

See ya next summerJ

Laura Weigle session 11

PS. Tell Jen thanks for taking all those pictures and then making the picture site, that was really awesome!

Surf Camp,

Let's just start by stating that I'm not your typical surfing student. I have a 25 year old mentality trapped in the body of a 43 year old short, stocky, male. I grew up in Wilmington in the 70's but only tried to surf one time when my next door neighbor suggested we go to Wrightsville Beach to ride the waves. With no instruction my 2 or 3 feeble attempts to "catch" one ended up with 2 or 3 face plants and a nose full off salt water.

Last summer on our vacation at the beach I thought I'd try it again but with someone guiding me along the way. I called Surf Camp before I left Florida for NC and was able to schedule a lesson. Needless to say I was the oldest one in the group but also probably the most excited. After listening to the instructors talk about equipment, position, technique, and safety, I was ready to hit the waves. WOW! What a difference. After riding a few waves on my belly I stood up and rode my first wave in. I was so excited Iwas yelling for the instructor to watch me as he had turned around to help another student. I ended up the rest off the morning riding several more waves with my wife and 4 year old son watching.

It goes without saying that I'll be back at Surf Camp this summer to hone my skills. The bottom line? If these guys can get someone like me surfing within a couple hours why waste your time learning any other way?

John M.
West Palm Beach, FL

Dear Surf Camp,

My name is Ian Williams and I live in Winston-Salem, NC. I am almost thirteen years old and attended Surf Camp two summers ago. Surf Camp was one of the best experiences in my life! It was the best camp I have ever been to! At Surf Camp there were so many fun activities that we got to do.. I got to go deep sea fishing in the Gulf Stream. I caught a big grouper and almost won the prize for the biggest fish, but I lost to Kenny, one of my great counselors. I also got to go to the sound and got to look at different types of fish and marine life. While we were in the sound, we caught fish, crabs, shrimp, and more intresting animals. We caught all of them in hand nets and seine nets.We also went to the sea turtle hospital where we saw many sea turtles. It was very cool especially since it was the first time I had seen one in real life. It was sad though because they were wounded. We also went to the aquarium and got to see many marine animals. One very nice thing was that we got to eat breakfast in UNCW's school cafeteria. We went out for lunch and dinner. The food was great.

Besides all this, I got to surf at many different beaches such as Wrightsville, Topsail and Fort Fisher. I have been surfing since I was six but after this camp I learned so much more about surfing, wave conditions and the ocean. My counselors surfed with us everyday and helped me improve my skills.On the last day of camp we had a contest and were judged on our skills and abilities. I did not win the contest but had fun competing against my new friends. I met people throughout the country as well as agirlfrom Europe. Today I still stay in touch with many of the friends I made. I sure would love to come back to camp. It was the GREATEST!


Your Surf Buddy,
Ian W

Hello Surf Camp,

You probably don't remember me. My name is Jack G>>>>> and I went to Surf Camp at UNCW. I went down there from Bowie, MD to try and do something new- I loved the water and I wanted to learn how to surf. I still remember all the fun times I had down there. I remember eating at these great (no, excellent) restuarants, enjoying the surf, and meeting new people.

Unfortunatly, I also got sick. I remember how Jen was so, so helpful in getting me better. She went out, got me medicine, contacted my parents-everything she could. Luckily, I got better in two days-just in time to learn how to stand up on my board and surf a few waves. Yep, I learned how to surf not in a week, but three days (with the help of your excellent staff)! Jeff and I even kept in contact for a few months afterword. I recommend this camp for anyone who has even thought about learning how to surf, and believe me...they will!

Sincerely,
John "Jack" G. Bowie MD Summer 2002

Dear Surf Camp,

I can not thank you enough for helping Gig get on a plane that night. That kind of personal attention is, I'm sure, what makes your company so successful. I have already given the camp's info to a number of parents, and intend to refer every chance I get.

These were Gig's words, verbatim as he got off the plane: "Mom, I had the best week of my entire life! It was awesome!!

Thanks for everything,

Pam L. - Cape Hatteras 04'

Dear Surf Camp,

Colin had a fabulous time at Surf Camp and we both regard it as his best ever camp experience and he has attended several sport and overnight camps all over the country. The combination of surfing instruction, fun, educational environmental activities and the excellent food and company, combined to make Colin want to come back for two weeks next year. Please let me know at the earliest possible time when your sessions are scheduled for next summer as we want to sign him up as soon as possible.

We received the photo disc in the mail and the photos are great. Everyone was wonderful both to Colin and to me. I appreciate all of Carrie's advice on the camp and the Wrightsville beach area. Colin has spring break the third week in March and he would be interested in attending a Florida camp if you have one then, but he especially wants to come back for two weeks next summer. I am trying to talk him into going on the Hawaii trip next summer but he loves Wilmington and Wrightsville beach and everyone there so much he want to come back to Surf Camp at UNCW and save Hawaii for the next summer (or so he says). It was one of the best experiences of his life and I thank you for giving him the opportunity to enjoy himself while learning to surf and adding to his knowledge about the coastal environment and the need to preserve this life for all those who will come after us to enjoy it. It couldn't have been better!

Thanks, Roxie and Colin

HEY GUYS!!!

This is Mandy M. from Ontario Canada. I just got home last night from the drive home from Surf Camp.

I just wanted to say that my experience at surf camp was and will continue to be the best ever! I had sooooooo much fun I hope to return next year. The instructors have got to be the absolute coolest people in the world and I couldnt have enjoyed their company more. They were all encouraging and helpful and were always there when you needed them.

I have definitely caught the surfing bug and I'm probably stoked for life!

My parents and I did stay at the blockade runner hotel. Thank you for the recomendation. It was beautiful!

North Carolina and Surf Camp has changed my life forever and has introduced me to a whole new world.

Thank you for everything!

Regards,

Mandy

ps. Im so glad I chose to 'Learn the right way'!

Hey Surf Camp

I'm sorry it took me so long to give you feedback on Ben's experience to Hawaii. I can say that every expectation he had was fulfilled and then some. Your staff did a terrific job of making this an experience of a lifetime. The only bad thing was that he came back determined to live in Hawaii. We'll deal with that in the future.

Remember when I called and you had to talk him into it? Sometimes there are experiences that we have growing up that are life-changing. This was that for Ben. He loved the kids and the instructors, the surfing, and especially the ambience of being in Hawaii. So thanks and keep up the good work.

Also, when the time comes, I would like to talk to you about UNCW. I think it is a good possibility for Ben who is now a junior.

All the best,

Ilana G.

Ben G. Mom

Dear Surf Camp,

This is audrey g. how's everything going down they're? i feel so weird not being in a van of screaming crazy people! lol . how's your camp group going?!?!?!?! i bett they have all stood up on the board by now. :-) i wanted to know if you would be able to change my scree name on the list you are sending out to everyone? its okay if u can't i was just wondering! my new screen name is, so have you heard from any of the other campers? i had a great time this year and a great time last year, i cant wait to come again next year! i just got a surf board! it's an older kind, it was my cousins and i am gonna use that till i get my own. lol . (can't wait for that!!!) so when are you gonna send out all the screen name's and e-mails and stuff? i'm sure your really busy and stuff workin your 2 jobs so i'll let you get back to that! i hope i hear from you if you get a spare minute! i just wanted to say thanx for teaching me the funnest thing in the world...SURFING!!!!!, i have never incountered a group of people who are as great and funn as you guyz! make sure you send me the list for the e-mail's and screen names!!!!!!!!!!!!

xoxo
send the love around
audrey - Long Island NY

Dear Surf Camp,

Just a note to let you know how much fun the girls had again with the Surf school!! This year they weren't able to attend the full camp as last year- we only got in two days of lessons- we left the area early(Thurs pm) due to Bonnie and Charley. Andy was the instructor- great job-

the gals had a blast- We'll be back!! We are looking into a family trip -maybe this October- do you still offer lessons then??
Thanks again to all at the school-

Regards,
Carol D - Canada

Dear Surf Camp,

I attended the Wrightsville Beach Surf Camp with my two young daughters in August and I just wanted to write to tell you what a good time we had. All of the instructors were great - very professional in their approach and each showed a lot of care with us. Their enthusiasm for surfing is easy to see. You feel encouraged to do well and even if you don't, it's a blast. Thanks Joel, Kenny, Kate and all the other great instructors.

Joe D.
Fairfax Virginia

Hello Surf Camp,

I have been meaning to send these pictures to you for over a year. My daughter Kasey took surfing lessons from you guys during Surf Camp in 2003 in the summer. She has a great time and now she loves surfing. Thank you for all you do!

Sincerely,

Amy B. - Wilmington NC - Kids Week

Hey Surf Camp,!

Just wanted to say big thanks to everyone for such a great time at camp this summer! And I kinda wanted to know when I could pay my deposit for next summer. I had so much fun and can’t wait to do it again!

Much love,

Rachel W.

Hey Surf Camp,

The experience was great. I'm all pumped up now!!!!!!!!!!! Heck, I may even take another lesson, who knows?

The instructors were great too. I thought the waves were big, but it was a ton of fun. Every time I stood up, I fell down, but you have to start somewhere, right. I worked with Greg and let me tell you, he is all about getting you on a wave! It was a blast.

Thanks so much for the experience. I'm indebted to you now.

John watched us do the "pop up" from the surf cam. He got a kick out of that.

I went by your office last Friday to drop off the app. and I also picked up some of your brochures. I have them in our lobby. Maybe some people will take advantage. I know I will be referring to you even more now.

Hope to see you and Jen around soon. (I'm sure you guys are almost too busy to breathe right now)

Take care,

Ginger T. - Wilmington, NC

Dear Surf Camp,

Thanks to all the Wrightsville Beach Surf Camp staff. Christopher really had a great time. I'm sure we will be hearing about his experience for a long time. Keep us informed on anything that may benefit Christopher with his surfing. We will definitely see you next summer at camp. Keep in touch - Thanks a Bunch!

Jenna, Christopher, Michael and Tammi - Hilton Head Island, South Carolina - Kids Week

To Surf Camp,

Last week I attended camp with my kids Dustin and Chelsea. I just had to write to tell you what a fabulous time we had. Every one of you made us feel so welcome and I know how hard you worked to get us some good rides. The fact that, even at the age of 46, I actually caught a few good waves and rode them all the way in is so awesome. This has been one of the best holidays I have ever shared with my kids and one we will always cherish.

Your passion for the sport is contagious and you have most definitely initiated three more into the fold. I'm quite certain you'll see our faces again next summer.

Thanks for an incredible experience. Can't wait to see the pictures. You guys are the best.
Barb Cumming

Barbara C. - Canada - Family Week

HI Surf Camp!

This is Britt C. and I went on the surf trip to Hawaii for 2 weeks, I just wanted to say I had an AMAZING time and wish we could have stayed longer! It was one of the best trips I have ever been on in my life! I was just wondering when and if the photos that DJ took would be available to purchase! I want all of them!

Thank you and ALOHA~Britt :-) - Vermont

Dear Surf Camp,

Hey this is Ashley C. I just came back from being at Surf Camp...and was wondering if I could get the e-mail's of each of the instructors that would be great. I had an amazing time and I'm looking forward to next years Hawaii trip! I made so many friends and the instructors Rocked!! Thanks for everything.

Ashley C. - Florida - Overnight Teen Week

Hi Surf Camp,

I just wanted to say thank you for the pictures...they're great! I think that you and your wife have done a wonderful job running this camp. And thank you again for having a great staff they made it so much fun for us!! I wish you all well and good luck with Isabel coming your way. The waves must have been heaven........ahhhhhhh...miss it so much:)

Angelle C. - Canada - Adult Week

Dear Rick,

Aloha! To a fellow worthy of the utmost respect. I just wanted to let you know, that from where I sit here on the podium of life, your accomplishments and your motivation is worthy of praise. It's nice to see someone run with the will to better our environment. Your pursuit of a career, that not only helps to protect the worlds natural resources, but enlightens the minds, and enriches the lives of our children, is one that most would only dream about. The impact of which will go beyond bettering humanity. Through this you are bettering the quality of life for all life on our planet. May all of your students be blessed with natures bliss and may your work be fruitful and rewarding to all life on earth.

Mike M. - Long Island, NY

Hey Surf Camp,

I just wanted to drop a line to say thanks, and to let you know how much I enjoyed my
time at the adult-week surf camp last week. Being a broke-recent-college-grad, it wasn't
easy for me to scrape together the funds to get my butt down there by Greyhound from
NYC, but it turned out to be the *best* investment I've ever made! I've wanted to learn how to surf for as long as I can remember; it was like I knew it was the thing I needed to do in life. The time that I spent in NC w/ Surf Camp was like five straight days of falling madly in love. I have never been so happy. My body, my mind, and my soul were in a perpetual state of bliss.

No doubt it is the sport itself which makes me feel so good, but I must thank you
profusely, for were it not for the well-organized camp program, including the dedication of your instructors, the quality of the provided equipment, and the additional activities, I might not have enjoyed my first experience quite as much. I was *very* impressed with everything overall. I love the fact that you have chosen to include marine ecology/environmental related lectures/field trips.

What struck me the most however, was the quality of instruction; I really cannot say
enough about the instructors. They are passionate, knowledgeable, dedicated,
motivational, patient---some of the best teachers I have ever had in every respect. Kenny and Eric made particularly lasting impressions on me. Kenny for his passion and spirit, and Eric for his patience and encouragement.

I have been bitten by the bug and will be forever infected. I am so glad that you provided this opportunity for me to learn what I always knew I would love. As I have few job prospects and little to lose at 22, I am planning on leaving NYC and moving down to NC. I'll trade my MetroCard for a surfboard anyday.

Thank you a million times over.

One

-Erin S. New York, New York

Dear Surf Camp,

Learning to surf was a dream come true, but learning about the ecosystem was cool too. It is so much easier when you learn the right way!!

Fast Eddie - Kentucky - Adult Week

Dear Surf Camp,

My husband Mike and I just want to thank you all for a fantastic week! I was really sad
to leave the adult surf camp class (Sept. 8 - 12). All the instructors were fun and patient
and the people were great!

Thank you all for a fantastic time!
Best Wishes,

-Donna B. / Mike C. Adult Week

Dear Surf Camp,

Thanks a lot for a great week! I met a lot of great folks there. The instructors were awesome!

I really enjoyed their attitude, wealth of knowledge, and being there for us. I definitely would recommend Surf Camp to anyone...in fact I may sign up again in the future (as a refresher course).

Kenny especially showed enthusiasm towards surfing. I felt that he helped me recapture my passion to want to learn everything about the sport and lifestyle of surfing.

All the instructors were great in the fact that they were enthusiastic about what they were doing. In fact, Adam, Sam and Kenny invited us out to hang out in the evening. It was extremely nice of them to chat about the Wilmington area, beaches, surfing, weather, waves, and life in general. Much kudos to an awesome staff!

I can't say enough about how Joel ran the program either. Top notch! He did a great job explaining the history of surfing, board development, etc. Eric was very nice and informative too!

Also, much thanks to Megan who helped steer us (me and Qu Kim) to the group when they went to Topsail Beach on Tuesday. We got a late start and she gave good directions and followed up to make sure we found the group. I look forward to seeing everyone again and best of luck in the future!

Sincerely,

Ed O. - Adult Week

Dear Surf Camp,

I had a great time at Surf Camp and I think you have a great program. I am sorry I left early especially after seeing the waves you got on Friday. I desperately need your help because now it is really pumping here. 4 to 6 with occasional 7 to 8 and very rough. I had trouble just getting out, but I am hanging in there and keeping my knees bent and my shoulder tucked in and taking off on an angle makes it possible for me to catch a few.

I hope you guys go to Costa Rica or Puerto Rico and have a traveling camp. I would really like to go.

Thanks again Let me know if you need a participant recommendation. I can give it a totally thumbs up.

Later
Dudes

Daniel A, M.D. - Philadelphia, PA - Adult Week

Hey Surf Camp,

It's Mallory C.! I first wanted to say I had so much fun my second year of surf camp, it was more fun than the first one... I had a great time and just wanted to say I had the best time EVER. Those five days I was there. I made so many friends... who I am still in contact with... and we have also planned a reunion at Wrightsville next summer!!!

Also, I got to get a new Stewart longboard... but a special thanks goes to Timmy for that one. I haven't been able to be in touch with Timmy since the Wahine and he said to contact the camp to see if you had any idea how I could reach him... like and email or address or something. He was so nice to me... he brought me a softtop to mess around with... he sold me a board... taught me tricks and what not. So... I don't want to lose contact with him.

If there is any way I can talk to him please write me back!!

Thanks for EVERYTHING!!
Mallory C. - Teen Week

Hi Surf Camp,

I had to drop you a note to tell you how much Beth H. enjoyed surf camp. She has not stopped talking about all the wonderful counselors she became friends with and how much fun she had learning to surf. She said it will be so hard to go a whole year not being with you all and has had tears in her eyes missing all of you. Thank you again for making her first camp experience a truly wonderful experience.

Sincerely,

Julie H. - Florida

Hi Surf Camp,

Tim had a wonderful time!! If he could go back tomorrow I think he would. Sounds like you all did a great job. I am certain you all must be worn out by the end of the week. I got tired just thinking about it all. Thank you for putting so much time and effort into making it such a success:-)

From what I understand all you guys and girls are top notch!!

Thanks again.

Julie A. - Virginia

Dear Surf Camp,

I wanted to thank you both for providing such a great opportunity to explore Hawaii and the great sport of surfing. Brynn had a terrific time and had a lot of fun learning how to surf. We don't live near the beach so practicing will be difficult, but she is already looking forward to what opportunities will be offered next year with Surf Camp! Enjoy the rest of summer and let's stay in touch.

Sincerely, Lea D. - Salisbury, NC

Dear Surf Camp,

What a terrific week. Cole had the best time of is life! Congratts on a FIRST CLASS camp, it was everything and more. Cole loved every minute of it.

We appreciate you time, patience, professionalism, enthusiasm, and love of the ocean.

Simply the best,

Sincerely, Kristen, D. - Wilmington, NC

Dear Surf CAmp,

Thanks for an unbelievable week! We all had a great time!

Merryl, Augie, Danielle, and A.J. - Long Island, New York - Family Week

Hi Surf Camp,

Jill and Katie are really looking forward to coming back to Surf Camp in a few weeks. We loved all of last years photos!!! Thanks in advance for all of your hard work, guidance, and fun.

See you soon, Leslie, Jill, and Katie - Teen Overnight - Virginia

Dear Surf Camp,

Thank you SOOOO much for such an awesome week! I haven't been able to stop telling people about "Surf Camp" and how much fun I had. (Sounds like a little kid writing home, huh?) IT really was one of the best weeks of my life! I got to spend it with my best friend and meet an entire group of new, wonderful people!

Good luck this week with the kids and I will see you at the Wahini contest. When you guys get more details on you clinic and have a few minutes, let me know. I'd love to try and make it out to that.

Thanks again, a million times over. You've got an amazing program and should be proud of yourselves (Now I sound like a mom!)

Take care and I'll talk to you soon!

Tami M. - Wilmington, NC

Dear Surf Camp,

Summer of Surfing - An unique experience

Every summer, the urge of trying out something different led me to few days of surfing classes at the Wrightsville Beach NC Surf School. A beautiful summer day with the waves breaking nicely made it a perfect afternoon for my first surf class.

The instructor explained in great details the technique of spotting a good wave, weather conditions, currents, surfing peaks, crowd/etiquette and than began with the basic elements of surfing, i.e. paddling, standing up on a gliding board and riding the wave.

After a few wipe-outs, I had my first 4 second of surf ride thrill and the joy of a new achievement. At the end of day one and many a wipe-outs I had manage to add another 3 seconds to my earlier 4 having my complete 7 second moment of glory.

Day 2 was very challenging, a few good waves which only a good surfer would know to spot out. The conditions required great test of patience and paddling endurance to be able to pick up that one good wave and experience the joy of riding the wave. For me, taking a break seemed like a better option after an hour of endless paddling and wipe-outs. That's when I learnt my greatest surf lesson.

A few hours of watching the surfers, the difference between the experienced and amateur surfers became evident. The experienced surfers waited patiently till they spotted the one wave that they wanted to ride and with their eyes constantly following the tip of the wave maneuvered their boards riding the wave to its longest duration by switching directions constantly picking the wave direction all the time.

Surfing like many other things in life requires us be aware of our surroundings as we constantly make our decisions. We can never have a pre-made plan for everything, the plan needs to adjust constantly depending on current circumstances and success will belong to those that have that adaptability.

Joe

Dear Surf Camp,

Thanks for an awesome week! I had so much fun! I can't wait to go surfing again, and maybe even come back to North Carolina (although I'm hoping that Vermont will
also develop a coastline sometime soon...) Thanks again for a great time!

-Jen - Adult Week