THE MALIBU INVITATIONAL
Blending Generations Of Surfing To Save Lives

Even though the waves were small this past weekend, the Malibu Classic, held at first point Malibu, was a complete success. The entire contest benefitted Lyon Herron, a 15-year old Malibu surfer who has been heroically battling a rare genetic disease called Gardner's Syndrome for the past eleven years.

Every Malibu figure-head, young and old, turned out to support Lyon and compete at the infamous surf spot. The dismal surf made for interesting strategies, especially in the Legends division, where bragging rights at the point are held in high regard. Allen Sarlo battled his way to first place, gliding across the small waves like a linebacker built ballet dancer. Timmy Curran was the man to beat all weekend in the Pro division and he came through with some high scores to win the final.

On Friday and Saturday night the crew hosted some big parties where A-list celebrities mixed with surfers to support the Lyon Herron Foundation. Celebrity attendees included Jeremy Piven, Ben Harper and Paris Hilton, with performances at the Malibu Inn by Colin Giles, Shwayze, Tim Curran and White Star. At one point in the night Lyon was spotted on stage with his arm firmly wrapped around Paris Hiton and a huge smile on his face. Some notable top surfers in attendance were Kalani Robb, Danny Fuller, Christian Fletcher, Reef McIntosh, Pascal Stansfield, Gavin Beshen and Chris Brown.

Everyone involved with the event contributed to making it a unique contest, and here's hoping it will become an annual event.

Let me finish by saying go to 4lyon.com. It’s an incredible site dedicated to Lyon Herron where you can make donations and further your understanding of Lyon’s courageous fight with Gardner’s Syndrome.