The San Diego surf community once again showed the power of coming together for a cause. More than 100 surfers from across San Diego County participated in the 16th Annual 100 Wave Challenge, a beloved surf-a-thon benefiting Boys to Men Mentoring (B2M). This year’s event raised an incredible $350,000, surpassing the $300,000 fundraising goal and marking one of the most successful years in the event’s history.
Funds raised through the 100 Wave Challenge directly support B2M’s in-school group mentoring programs, which provide consistent guidance, accountability, and connection to hundreds of boys throughout the region. These programs create safe spaces where boys can be seen, heard, and supported by trained mentors who show up week after week.
The day brought together surfers, spectators, mentors, and youth participants, along with local surf legends and community leaders. Notable attendees included former World Champion Shaun Tomson, Rip Curl National Surf Champion Shiloh Page, and long-time supporters dedicated to strengthening opportunities for young men across San Diego.
“This event represents the best of what the San Diego surf community can accomplish together,” said Bruce Crenshaw, Interim Executive Director of Boys to Men MentoringB. “Every wave, every dollar, and every mentor plays a role in helping boys grow into the men they are capable of becoming. We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, surfers, and supporters for making this one of our most successful years.”
Beyond the fundraising success, the 100 Wave Challenge helps shine a light on the challenges many boys face today. Research shows that boys who grow up without a positive male role model are four times more likely to experience behavioral issues, nine times more likely to drop out of school, ten times more likely to struggle with substance abuse, and twice as likely to experience homelessness or incarceration.
Through weekly in-school mentoring circles, Boys to Men provides a structured, supportive environment where boys are encouraged to share honestly, build emotional intelligence, and develop resilience and confidence. These relationships help interrupt cycles of isolation and create lasting, positive change.
This year’s event was made possible by the generous support of our title sponsors, including Austin Surf Club, Tower Construction, Molly’s Angels, Dr. Bronner’s, and Kaiser Permanente. Their partnership—and the commitment of every surfer and donor—helped turn waves into real impact for the boys we serve.
For more information on how to participate in or support the 100 Wave Challenge, please visit 100wave.org.