August 10, 2008 – Ocean City, NJ

Even thought the waves may have only been shin high, it did not affect the turn-out of surfers and supporters of the 5th Annual Chip Miller Surf Fest in support of amyloidosis awareness. With over 150 surfers, supporting sponsors and an entertaining after-party, this year’s surf fest turned out to be the most successful event yet in memory of a much-loved man who embraced the surf, family and friends.

The event, presented by Fox and led by Nick Bricker, was conceived to benefit the Chip Miller Charitable Foundation in remembrance of Chip Miller, who passed away in 2004 from the rare disease amyloidosis. Chip was a surfing enthusiast and mentor to young surfers, as well as a renowned car-hobbyist. This year’s event raised a record amount of money for awareness, research and educational programs for the deadly disease, amyloidosis.

The highlight of this year’s event was the special guest appearance of Bethany Hamilton of Ocean Minded. Children and parents alike eagerly waited in line for an opportunity to meet Bethany and get her autograph. Bethany signed autographs on the beach for close to 2 hours to the excitement of her fans.

Other special guests at the Surf Fest included pro surfers Matt Keenan, Sammy Hammer, Gesler, Frank Walsh and Kevin Richards. These top surfers gave demonstrations with tow-outs on the Red Bull jet skis. There were also some incredible amateur surfers on hand, including Rob and Chris Kelly, Mike Ciramella, and more.

This year’s Surf Fest after-party included plenty of giveaway items for the charity donation raffle at El Fish Stixx in Margate, NJ. Some of the raffle items included six surfboards and two longboards, an O'Neill wet suit, an iPod Touch and Nano, a Wii, an Oakley watch, surfing prints and much more.

The Chip Miller Charitable Foundation was founded after the death of car-hobby icon Chip Miller, who was afflicted with the very rare disease amyloidosis. Chip Miller was a respected friend and incredible surf father. He also co-founded Carlisle Events, the world’s largest automotive collector car business. The Foundation’s goal is to raise money to support the research of amyloidosis as well as raise awareness of this life threatening disease.

Many local surf shops such as Heritage Surf & Sport, Surfers Supplies and 7th Street Surf Shop contributed money and products to the festival, and the organizers, tabulators, announcers and judges all volunteered their time to the event.

For a complete listing of sponsors, photos of the event and winners of the 2008 surf contest visit chipmiller.org.

Contributions to the Chip Miller Charitable Foundation should be sent to 1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA 17013-1588, or visit www.chipmiller.org for details.

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