23rd annual Tommy Tant Surf Classic returns Nov. 14-16

This year’s event will feature 19 divisions for all ages and skill levels, with the pro divisions competing for a $12,000 total prize purse.


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  • | 12:01 p.m. November 11, 2025
Caroline Sears surfing at a Tommy Tant competition. Photo by Robbie McCormick, courtesy of the Tommy Tant competition
Caroline Sears surfing at a Tommy Tant competition. Photo by Robbie McCormick, courtesy of the Tommy Tant competition
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The 23rd Annual Tommy Tant Memorial Surf Classic will gather once again Nov. 14–16, 2025. The event began as a community’s response to loss, honoring the life and legacy of Tommy Tant, a local surfer who passed away unexpectedly in 1998. Now one of the longest-running surf traditions on the East Coast, it has evolved into a beloved tradition that represents how hope and meaning can rise from even the hardest waves.

Each year, the contest attracts professional and amateur surfers from across the East Coast and unites global brands, local small businesses, and industry-leading healthcare organizations. This year’s event will feature 19 divisions for all ages and skill levels, with the pro divisions competing for a $12,000 total prize purse. A major source of fundraising comes from the event’s expansive raffle, providing visitors an opportunity to choose from an abundance of sun and surf gear and products generously donated by brands and artisans.

Since its founding, the Tommy Tant Memorial Surf Classic has raised more than $200,000 for local scholarships, food banks, and The Marfan Foundation, supporting research into connective tissue disorders like the one that affected Tommy.

“This contest has always been about more than surfing or remembering Tommy,” said Will Tant, event director and Tommy’s younger brother. “The reason his loss was felt so deeply is because of the depth of the friendships we shared. At its core, this event is a celebration of friendship, family, and community—how the connections we share with one another enrich our lives and bring meaning.”

Bring the whole family to the Flagler Beach boardwalk to watch incredible surfing talent, win prizes in the raffle, enjoy the kids’ craft area, and soak up a meaningful weekend.

The event schedule and details include:

Kickoff Party The Golden Lion Café Friday, Nov.14 | 6:30 p.m. Celebrate opening night with live and silent auctions featuring top prizes—including a surf package for two in Nicaragua, a golf getaway to the Hammock Beach Resort, a custom Channel Islands surfboard, and more—and a special announcement about the organization’s expanded vision.

Surf Classic Competition South of the Flagler Beach Pier Saturday–Sunday, Nov. 15–16, 2025.
● Men’s & Women’s Pro Divisions ($12,000 total purse)
● Amateur divisions across all age groups
● Raffles, merchandise, and kids' crafts
● Memorial paddle-out honoring loved ones (Sunday afternoon)
● Award ceremony (Sunday evening)

For more Information, visit www.tommytant.com.

 

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