Kickoff of 2026 Legends of Science & Surfing Benefiting Moores Cancer Center Launches 33rd Year

Article Content

 The energy was palpable and the community spirit was vibrant as supporters gathered to kick off the 33rd annual Legends of Science and SurfingOncology Science Symposium and iconic Legends Surf Competition to be held Aug. 14 and 15, 2026, in support of groundbreaking cancer research at Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health.

The evening at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach blended music, surf culture and purpose, welcoming an inspiring mix of surf legends, community leaders, industry partners, patients and supporters all united by a shared commitment to advancing cancer care and research.

The evening began with an exclusive VIP reception, where honored surfing legends, such as Jojo Roper and Guy Takayama, were welcomed with fresh flower leis and warm introductions. Guests had the opportunity to connect with iconic surfers — including acclaimed musician and three-time world champion surfer Tom Curren and fellow surf legend Brad Gerlach — during an intimate meet-and-greet that set the tone for the night.

As doors opened to general attendees, the Belly Up Tavern quickly filled with excitement. Guests spanning the continuum from surfers to scientists mingled, shared stories and captured memorable moments, reinforcing the deep sense of community that defines this annual event.

The program began with heartfelt remarks from our speakers capturing the spirit and purpose of the event. Moores Cancer Center Director Diane M. Simeone, MD, welcomed attendees and recognized the legends of surfing whose participation helps drive awareness and support for cancer research. Event cochair Tyler Callaway added energy and purpose to the event, serving as host, emcee and live auctioneer throughout the evening. A multiple time cancer survivor and UC San Diego surf coach, Callaway brought both personal inspiration and boundless enthusiasm to the stage, helping drive engagement and support throughout the night.

A particularly moving moment came as two survivors of pancreatic cancer, Scooter Leonard and Dino Dougenis, took the stage and described how they are thriving and still surfing after receiving care at Moores Cancer Center. Their stories served as powerful reminders of the life-changing impact made possible through continued investment in research and patient care.

The night seamlessly transitioned into live music, as Tom Curren and Brad Gerlach brought their signature sound and storytelling to the stage.

Their performance created a laid-back yet electric atmosphere, perfectly capturing the spirit of the surf community while energizing the crowd around a meaningful cause. Throughout the evening, guests participated in a silent auction and live auction, with enthusiastic bidding on a family pack of Rip Curl wetsuits, Belly Up concert tickets and even a Mexican surf vacation, all supporting innovative cancer research initiatives. Attendees were also encouraged to further their impact by sponsoring Legends of Science and Surfing in August and contributing through digital giving.

The event concluded with a lively jam session, leaving guests inspired and energized for the road as we look towards our signature event in August.

As the official kickoff to this year’s Legends of Science and Surfing signature event benefiting Moores Cancer Center, the evening set a powerful tone for what’s to come, bringing together passion, purpose and community in support of a future without cancer.

Looking ahead: The 2026 Legends of Science and Surfing promises to be an unforgettable experience, with the Oncology Science Symposium and reception with live music taking place on Aug. 14 at the Scripps Seaside Forum, followed by the Legends of Surfing Invitational under the iconic Scripps Pier and lunch on Aug. 15. Surf team registrations are open now; please visit the Legends of Science and Surfing website and follow for updates.

[Sign up to sponsor the event]

[Make a gift to support cancer research]