The 21st annual Waterman’s Ball and Auction was held Friday, July 9, in Laguna Niguel and drew a crowd of surf industry executives and celebrities, helping SIMA meet its goal of raising $400,000 for the organization’s Environmental Fund. Surf legend Tom Curren was honored as Waterman of the Year, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. gave a powerful acceptance speech for his Environmentalist of the Year award that highlighted the need to protect our oceans. Surf shaper Al Merrick was also presented with SIMA’s Lifetime Achievement award.

The evening began with a silent auction in the courtyard of the Ritz Carlton, and was followed by a live auction over dinner that featured everything from a trip to Tavarua to a brand new Audi. Honorees were then presented with their awards by other members of the surf industry such as Kelly Slater, who discussed the impact shaper Al Merrick has had on his life.

The Waterman’s Ball is part of SIMA’s annual Waterman’s Weekend, which serves as a fundraiser for the organization’s Environmental Fund, a charitable foundation that awards grants to various environmental groups based on their dedication to preserving and protecting the world’s oceans, beaches and waves. SIMA also holds a golf tournament as part of the weekend, which features a surf contest as well as live and silent auctions.