The much anticipated 36th Annual Bunger Surf Classic is right around the corner! On Sunday, September 29, 2024, starting at 8 AM at Gilgo Beach, Babylon, we’ll be hosting one of New York’s biggest surf contests. With divisions for Shortboard and Longboard across all ages, this is an event that brings together surfers young and old – there’s a spot for everyone in the lineup.
Sign-ups are open now at www.liveheats.com/esanewyork, and we encourage all surfers to get involved. As an Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) sanctioned event, the Bunger Surf Classic has been a staple in the community since Charlie Bunger Sr. teamed up with the ESA to launch the first event in 1988. Over the last three decades, it’s grown to become one of the ESA’s premier annual contests.
The contest has seen its fair share of legendary surfers. Charlie Bunger Jr. recalls, “I remember watching legends like Bob Hawkins, Eddie Fawess, Tony Caramanico, and later seeing up-and-coming kids like Alex Fawess, Owen O’Donnell, Chris Tomlin, Chase Lieder, Mikey Detemple, Balaram Stack, and so many others. So many great underground NY surfers have competed, the list is endless.”
We typically have 60 to 90 contestants, and this year we expect the same level of enthusiasm and competition. Whether you’re from the Rockaways or Montauk, this event has always brought New York’s best surfers together. In case of no waves, alternate dates are Saturday, October 5 or Sunday, October 6.
Whether you’re competing or just coming to watch, the Bunger Surf Classic always promises to be an unforgettable day filled with fun waves, camaraderie, and a true celebration of New York’s surf culture. Over the years, we’ve seen the contest take place in everything from fun, mellow conditions to downright legendary swells that have tested even the most experienced surfers. Regardless of the conditions, though, one thing is certain—everyone always has a blast.
From young groms as young as 10 to seasoned surfers in their 60s, this event unites surfers of all generations, fostering a sense of community that makes the Bunger Surf Classic so special. As Charlie Bunger Jr. puts it, “Every year is something different, but the spirit is always the same—pure fun and love for the sport. There’s nothing quite like seeing surfers of all ages pushing each other in the water and sharing their passion for the waves.”
We encourage all participants, spectators, and surf enthusiasts to follow us at www.bungersurf.com for updates and to check out the full recap after the event. We’ll be sharing all the highlights, from standout performances to epic wipeouts, and everything in between. So, whether you’re riding the waves or cheering from the shore, don’t miss out on this Long Island surf tradition!
Get ready for another amazing year—see you at Gilgo Beach on September 29th! 🌊🏄♂️
