SURFING SOAPBOX: Legalize surfing

It’s hard to fathom that in this day and age, in 2008, surfing is still illegal — even in the United States of America. Strange as it may be, surfing is illegal in Chicago, and the fight to legalize it is on.

Maybe the word “movement” is better, because I don’t believe the word “fight” should ever be associated with the wonderful sport of surfing. Even the word “legalize” doesn’t belong in association with surfing. We’re not talking about legalizing drugs here. We are talking about the “sport of kings” (surfing), and it is mystifying to me that while it is against the law to surf, it is legal to wind surf and kayak. Even kite-surfing is legal.

Legal and illegal should never be used in the same sentence with any of the above-mentioned sports, which all are good and healthy sports to participate in. All are great outlets for our youth — certainly better than some of the other choices out there in the world.

Here are some facts: Last year there were at least nine Lake Michigan drownings in Chicago and at least eight people rescued by surfers on the Great Lakes. It would be fair to speculate that had surfing been legal, surfers could have prevented some of the above-mentioned drownings.

It can be said that in some instances surfers can act as an extension of lifeguard departments, not only in rescues but in determining rules and regulations that govern some of our beaches.

Here in Laguna Beach, surfers worked hand and hand with lifeguards in regulating our surfing schools in town, with great success.

In the past, surfers worked with our City Council and lifeguards to change the “black ball” regulations at Pearl Street beach. Given the chance of working together, I believe we can always find better solutions not only for our beaches, but for all of us.

I will be speaking Monday in Chicago before a special committee of the city parks department.

Peace.

JAMES PRIBRAM is a Laguna Beach native, professional surfer and John Kelly Environmental Award winner. His websites include AlohaSchoolofSurfing and ECOWarrior Surf.com. He can be reached at Jamo@Aloha SchoolofSurfing.com