Epic Waves of Joy: Jacksonville's Adaptive Surfing Event Shines!

Jacksonville Beach, Florida, USA - On June 7, 2025, Jacksonville Beach turned into a vibrant hub of joy and inspiration as Brooks Rehabilitation’s Adaptive Sports and Recreation program hosted its annual adaptive surfing event. This year’s event drew over 80 athletes, all eager to catch waves and break barriers, showcasing that the ocean is indeed for everyone, regardless of physical or mental challenges.

Among the remarkable participants was 10-year-old Armando Real Cintron, who was surfing for the first time. Born 24 weeks premature and weighing just over a pound, he has overcome numerous hurdles. His mother, Nicole Cintron, could hardly contain her emotions, radiating joy as she watched her son not just participate but truly belong. Another familiar face was Danny Moloney, a young man with Down syndrome, who has been riding the waves for nearly a decade. He shared his excitement about returning each year, highlighting the continuity and growth the event fosters.

Community Support and Volunteerism

With more than 250 volunteers lending a helping hand, this year’s gathering was a testament to community spirit. Jim Moloney, Danny’s father, remarked on the uplifting nature of the event, stating it allows individuals to pursue goals they might not have imagined they could achieve. Megan Hyman, the program’s director, described the event as transformational, saying it’s a crucial opportunity for participants to enhance their quality of life. This year, every wave ridden contributed to the collective feeling of togetherness and empowerment among participants and volunteers alike.

For those wondering about the success of the event, it’s worth noting that all participant slots were filled early, with a waitlist set up for hopeful surfers who wanted to join the fun. In addition, background checks may have been required for volunteers, ensuring a safe environment for everyone involved. If you missed out this time, there are always opportunities next year. To catch up on the excitement, a recap video of the day is available for viewing on the Brooks Adaptive Sports website.

Looking Ahead

Beyond Jacksonville Beach, adaptive surfing initiatives are blossoming across various locations. Events like the upcoming Wheel to Surf gatherings in North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, and Atlantic Beach, South Carolina, indicate a growing recognition of the power of adaptive sports. Each event is designed to provide similar opportunities for individuals with disabilities to experience the freedom that comes from surfing and being in the water. Further outreach is also planned, with trips to Colombia, Costa Rica, and Cuba in the pipeline to broaden the reach of adaptive surfing.

The transformative spirit embodied at the Brooks Rehabilitation event shows that the ocean has a welcoming wave for everyone. Whether it’s a child like Armando taking their first ride or seasoned surfers like Danny and Tristan feeling free in their element, every splash contributes to a greater narrative of inclusion and possibility. A big thanks to all participants and volunteers who came together to make this day unforgettable!

For more information on how you can participate or volunteer in future events, visit Brooks Adaptive Sports and Recreation or explore the broader landscape of adaptive surfing at Adaptive Surf Project.