Fostering the Next Generation of Surfers, set for Father’s Day weekend
Photos Tony Heff
Honolulu, HI – April 28, 2025 – T&C Surf proudly announces the 27th Annual T&C Grom Contest presented by Duke’s Waikiki, taking place June 14–15, 2025, at the historic Kuhio Beach in Waikiki.
“This is the greatest thing we do. It’s our way of giving back,” said Craig Sugihara, founder of T&C Surf. Known for its premier surfboards and clothing supporting the surf, skate, and island communities for over 50 years, T&C Surf remains deeply committed to nurturing the spirit of surfing among Hawai‘i’s youth.
The T&C Grom Contest welcomes children ages 3–12 who have not yet competed in ranked amateur surf organizations such as NSSA or HSA. By focusing on first-time competitors, the event offers a fun, supportive environment for young surfers to experience the thrill of competition without the pressure of rankings.
“We’re giving back to the kids that aren’t already doing contests,” Sugihara added. “This is all about fun, community, and introducing keiki to a lifelong love of the ocean.”
Event Highlights Include:
• Boys and girls divisions for shortboard, longboard, and co-ed bodyboard, with age groups from 6–12 years.
• Kokua Division for ages 3–8, allowing parental assistance in the waves.
• Games and prizes throughout the weekend.
• Catered lunch for competitors, courtesy of Duke’s Waikiki.
• The Sunday FreeSurf Expression Session, pairing young surfers with adults for tandem rides.
This year introduces new format changes, including gender-specific Kokua divisions and adjustments to meet the City and County of Honolulu’s revised guidelines for surf event permits, ensuring equity, inclusion, and opportunities for all.
The T&C Grom Contest is proudly partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii, supporting local youth for over 16 years. “We are honored to support this amazing event as T&C celebrates the youth of Hawai‘i with surf and play in Waikiki,” said Paddy Kauhane, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii.
Mike Latronic, publisher of FreeSurf Magazine, added, “Having collaborated with T&C for many years, I can honestly say it never gets old to see the joy, camaraderie, and family fun at the T&C Grom Contest.”
Event Details:
• Registration Opens: April 30, 2025, at 8:00 a.m.
• Contest Dates: June 14–15, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Location: Kuhio Beach, Queens, Waikiki (adjacent to the Duke Kahanamoku statue)
• Eligibility: Children ages 3–12 who have not competed in ranked amateur surf events.
Each participant will receive a goodie bag, including a contest T-shirt and lunch. Spaces are limited and the event reaches capacity quickly. Competitors must be a Hawaii resident. Outer island keiki welcome!
For more information and to register, please visit: https://tcsurf.com/pages/grom-contest
Mahalo to Our Sponsors: Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii, FreeSurf Magazine, Dakine, SunBum, Yeti, Future Fins, Vans, RVCA, GoPro, PSD Underwear, Science Bodyboards, and Melin.