14th Luau & Longboard Invitational at Scripps - 08/19/2007

The event brings together some of the most respected men and women in surfing history with business leaders, scientists, physicians and cancer patients to increase awareness and raise much-needed funds for cancer research.  All of the proceeds from the Luau & Longboard Invitational are donated to the center's leading research programs.

"Over the past 13 years, we have been able to contribute over two million dollars to the Moores UCSD Cancer Center," said Paul Grayson, co-chair of the event.  "For this year, we want to raise half a million dollars – one dollar for each life that will be lost this year to cancer."

The public is welcome to watch the Longboard Invitational, a surfing tournament where the emphasis is on participation and support for the cause rather than an individual's surfing ability. Each of the sponsored teams of five, including an assigned surfing legend, vie for traditional trophies.  In the afternoon, the Luau presents Polynesian dancing, bands, live and silent auctions, featuring surf memorabilia, and a ceremony to honor the winner of the Rell Sunn – Queen of Makaha Award.  The award recognizes an individual for his or her dedication to helping others in the fight against cancer in ways that embody the true "aloha" spirit. 

"We believe that collectively we can beat cancer and that is part of the 'aloha' spirit of the Luau," said Craig Knox, co-chair of the event. "Together, we can help more people be cancer survivors."

Paul Grayson and Craig Knox also are pleased to announce that Genentech, a leading biotechnology company, has made a donation to be this year's Luau & Longboard Invitational. 

As part of its title sponsorship, Genentech's donation will support a Thriver's Team – a longboarding team comprised of surfers who have successfully fought cancer who participate in the competition.

For more information visit www.longboardluau.org