22nd Annual Tommy Tant Memorial Surf Classic

The Tommy Tant Memorial Surf Classic began in 1999 as a small event to celebrate the life of 24-year-old surfer Tommy Tant, Jr., who died unexpectedly in his sleep from an aortic aneurysm. With the help of Tommy’s former high school teachers, the Flagler Palm Coast High School marketing class organized the first contest. Proceeds were given away in scholarships to local students, beginning the Tommy Tant Memorial Scholarship Fund.

After the original event, Zoee Forehand, owner of Z-wave Surf Shop in Flagler Beach, and her staff directed the contest for the next three years.  In the fifth year, Tommy’s younger brother, Will, became the event organizer. As a professional surfer at the time, Will wanted to inspire and encourage the local youth to follow their dreams by introducing them to professional athletes and artists.