New awards for 2025
Paddlesurf legacy award
In Honor of Dennis Judson
The Santa Cruz Paddlefest started in 1985 as a way to promote ASU and provide a contest for the budding sport of surf kayaking. Dennis started, shaped and grew the event for 29 years, before handing over the event reins to the next generation just a few years ago. He might have stepped down as event director, but he remained a competitor and a larger-than-life personality at the event.
This award will be presented to a person who has stepped up, and continued to grow the sport of paddle surfing.
Spirit of competition award
In Honor of Jim Grossman
Jim was extraordinary, there is no other way to say it. Nothing phased him, it challenged him, and he continued to raise the bar of competition. At the Santa Cruz Paddlefest, it was no different. Jim’s competitive spirit soared- he was always seen as one of the toughest competitors in the sport.
This award will be presented to a competitor who exemplifies the Spirit of Competition.