Surfers and Philanthropists Unite in the Fight Against Cancer Aug. 9

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Artwork by Matt Beard will be among the featured auction items.

A fundraiser like no other, the Luau and Legends of Surfing Invitational trades tuxedos and ballrooms for surfboards and sand. The San Diego tradition, now in its 22nd year, features a surf competition that draws scientists, community members and surf legends alike. Afterward, guests will enjoy a Hawaiian-themed luau with entertainment by singer-songwriter and former San Diego Padre Tim Flannery. The festivities begin at 7 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 9 on the beach near Scripps Pier. All proceeds from the event will support research and patient care at Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health.

“The commitment to support cancer research that is demonstrated each year at the Luau and Legends of Surfing Invitational is truly inspiring,” said UC San Diego Chancellor Pradeep K. Khosla. “We are grateful to have dedicated partners in the San Diego community who are also helping to advance our mission of transforming patient care.”

Annual fundraiser for cancer research opens with a friendly surf competition. Photo by Mitch Murphy.

Since its founding, the event has raised nearly $6.5 million for Moores Cancer Center. Recognized for achievements in science, clinical care, education and community contributions, Moores Cancer Center is one of just 44 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the nation, and the only one in the San Diego region. The center is also ranked among the top 25 in the nation for cancer services by U.S. News and World Report’s 2015-16 “Best Hospitals” survey.

“From studies in molecular genetics to the most advanced treatments, our team is at the forefront in the fight against cancer,” said Scott M. Lippman, MD, director of Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health. “With support from this year’s Moores Cancer Center Luau, we are developing promising new therapies, providing excellence in clinical research and expanding our personalized patient care to ensure optimal outcomes for our patients.”

A highlight of the beachside fundraiser is the presentation of the Rell Sunn Award, which honors the memory of Hawaiian surfer and longtime Luau supporter Rell Kapolioka’ehukai Sunn, who lost her battle with breast cancer. Each year, the event’s volunteer committee selects an honoree who has made a difference in the battle against cancer and who embodies the aloha spirit.

This year’s honoree is Carl June, MD, a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania whose pioneering work has significantly enhanced the promise of cancer immunotherapy, a treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to help fight the disease. One investigative therapy developed by June’s team was recently licensed by Novartis, and has received breakthrough therapy designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of certain types of leukemia.

The 2015 Luau and Legends of Surfing Invitational is chaired by Larz Lock of DPR Construction. The honorary chair is surf legend and longtime Luau supporter Peter “PT” Townend, who in 1976 became the first world champion of professional surfing. Pfizer, Inc. returns as the title sponsor of the fundraiser for the eighth year in a row.

Surf legends, scientists and community members come together to support the fight against cancer. Photo by Todd Barnes.

“Over the last 21 years, the Luau and Legends of Surfing Invitational has been an enormous success, bringing in critical funds to support Moores Cancer Center,” said Lock. “DPR Construction has had the honor of contributing to this success since its inception. We are looking forward to spreading the aloha spirit in the fight against cancer for a 22nd year.”

The Luau and Legends of Surfing Invitational kicks off at 7 a.m. at the beach near Scripps Pier in La Jolla, where teams of four will be paired with a surf legend for a friendly competition. The luau follows at noon with music by Tim Flannery, a tropical buffet, and live and silent auctions featuring original surf-inspired artwork, unique surfboards and vacation packages.

The surfing competition is free for spectators; tickets to the luau fundraiser are $175 per person. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, team entries, tickets and event activities, call (858) 534-4289 or visit the event website at luauandlegendsofsurfing.org. More information on Moores Cancer Center can be found at cancer.ucsd.edu.