Mike Gerard resigns from Surfing America

Press Release:

MIKE GERARD RESIGNS AS SURFING AMERICA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO PURSUE NEW CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

San Juan Capistrano, CA, July 27, 2011 - After eight years at the helm of Surfing America Mike Gerard has resigned his position as Executive Director to pursue new career opportunities. Greg Cruse has been appointed by the board as Administrative Director to run the day-to-day operations of Surfing America.

Surfing America President, Jeff Booth said, "On behalf of the Executive committee and the entire board we'd like to thank Mike for his years of service and acknowledge his significant contributions to Surfing America and the sport of surfing. This position is one of the toughest in the industry and Mike took the challenge head on every day. We wish him much success with his new endeavor."

"The experience with Surfing America has been nothing short of amazing and I'm very excited about the new opportunities ahead," said Gerard.

"I'd like to thank everyone I've had the pleasure to work with these past eight years including the Surfing America executive committee and Board of Directors, the SIMA Board of Directors, the member organizations, PacSun, and all of the other sponsors and supporters ofSurfing America-and the surf industry as a whole. In particular, I'd like to send a special thank you to the athletes and families that make up the fabric of this amazing organization. It has truly been an honor to be a part of developing the sport of surfing."

"As Mike was Surfing America's first and only Executive Director we now enter into a new chapter. We are excited to have Greg Cruse step into his new role," said Jeff Booth, Surfing America President.

"Greg has sand between his toes and many hours at the beach running events most notably the Prime series. He understands the inner workings of Surfing America and what's required to move this organization into the future.

"I'm excited to have the opportunity to improve and grow Surfing America's two key properties. The PacSun USA Surf Team and the Surfing America USA Championships at Lower Trestles." said Greg Cruse.

"I'm also looking forward to building mutually beneficial relationships with the member organizations, the brands and the media while attracting the best surfing talent this country has to offer. I look forward to seeing everyone at the beach and hearing what needs to be done to make Surfing America even better!"

Greg Cruse - Director

Surfing America, Inc.

33157-B Camino Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano CA 92675

949-791-SURF (7873)

Fax - 949-203-6258

gregcruse@surfingamerica.org

About Surfing America 

Surfing America is the ISA-recognized National Governing Body for Surfing in the United States. The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for Surfing, Bodyboarding, and Surfriding. http://surfingamerica.org