Posted: September 30, 2011, 3 a.m. EDT
Presented by Eukanuba, the event, which was held in Del Mar, is the largest surfing dog competition in the nation.
Eighty dogs competed but only one was named "top dog." Surf Dog Buddy, a 14-year-old
Jack Russell Terrier from Ventura, took the honors this year. Buddy has won five of the six Surf Dog Surf-A-Thons and became the first inductee into the Surf Dog Hall of Fame.
"That last heat was probably the best of Buddy's life," says Bruce Hooker, Buddy’s owner. “Helen Woodward Animal Center hosts the best Surf Dog Competition and we are so proud to represent."
More than 4,000 spectators gathered to watch dogs compete in four weight classes. The competition was judged by world champion surfers and included a celebrity judged costume contest.
Other standout surf dogs include second place finisher, Nani and third place finisher, Dozer, both from San Diego.
Surf Dog Ricochet was also honored as the top fundraiser for this year's Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon, raising more than $6,000 for the pets and programs of Helen Woodward Animal Center.
