Big names get the word out to help

NEWPORT BEACH — Invitees to Saturday’s “Pipeline to a Cure” event had the rare privilege of spending a fun day learning stand-up paddling, surfing’s fastest growing permutation, from some of the world’s best.

The Newport Aquatic Center was host for the occasion which served to promote PTAC’s upcoming Gala Event, July 18 at the Huntington Beach Hyatt Regency, benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Cystic Fibrosis is a life-threatening genetic disease that affects about 30,000 children and adults in the United States. Recently, a correlation between ocean water sports and healthier lungs in CF patients has been discovered, and members of the surfing community have been quick to get involved.

Among the volunteer instructors were all-time waterman and PTAC Co-Chairman Dave Kalama, surfing legend and stand-up paddle board maker Mickey Munoz, Maverick’s (big wave surf spot) pioneer Jeff Clark, and women’s surfing and stand-up paddling champion Jericho Poppler.

Also attending the event were Olympic swimmer and multi-medal winner Jason Lezak, and CF Foundation Executive Director Colleen O’Higgins.

Emily Haager, who has CF, was the event spokesperson. She explained that the connection between surfing, paddling and CF is that the inhalation of saltwater mist hydrates the lining of the lungs and helps rid them of the mucus and bacteria the disease produces. Doctors have developed a hypertonic solution that mimics a surf session and can be taken on a daily basis by CF patients.

In addition to the paddling lessons, guests enjoyed a day of food, beverages, and live entertainment featuring San Clemente’s OFFWHITE, whose primary members are Ryan and Kai Kalama, who made it to the second round of American Idol this past season.

The event was coordinated by Judy Burlingham and Todd Elder who have been long-time CF Foundation supporters, and the catalyst for establishing the “pipeline” between the surfing community and the CFF. Judy said the day was, “a lot of fun for everyone — and successful in raising CF awareness and promoting our big event in July.”