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SURFING AMERICA TO HONOR FUEL TV’S CJ OLIVARES WITH THE “DICK BAKER MEMORIAL AWARD”
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA -May 25, 2010 - Surfing America, the national governing body for the sport of surfing in the USA, announced today it will honor CJ Olivares, General Manager of Fuel TV, with the second annual “Dick Baker Memorial Award.”
Olivares will accept the award at Surfing America’s introduction of the 2010/2011 PacSun USA Surf Team on Monday, June 28th at the Historical Casino in San Clemente.
CJ Olivares, General Manager of Fuel TV
“Last year, Surfing America initiated the award in the late Dick Baker’s honor because of his dedication to advancing the sport and business of surfing, his role in the creation and development of Surfing America, and for his compassion and unending willingness to mentor others,” said Michael Gerard, Executive Director of Surfing America. ”Dick was an incredible leader and a guiding light for the entire industry. In the spirit of him, each year, we will carry on the tradition of recognizing individuals who follow in Dick’s footsteps. CJ is a perfect example of that.”
A special committee chaired by Dick’s wife, Una Baker, reviewed nominations and selected Olivares for this award because he believes deeply in the development of youth surfing, the vitality of the surf industry, and what the combination of both represents culturally. Those who have had an opportunity to work with Olivares know first hand that supporting the interest of others in surfing does not seem to be an option for him, it is something he feels compelled to do.
Throughout his career, Olivares has been responsible for producing or telecasting well over 100 hours of surf programming on Fuel TV and FSN; and the operation of WCT and WQS events, including Teahupoo, Lowers, Coldwater Classic and the US Open. He is actively involved with and serves on the boards of the Surfrider Foundation, SurfAid, SIMA, and Grades of Green, a charity dedicated to the education of kids (grades K-12) in environmental awareness and sustainable living. Olivares is also father to three outstanding daughters Clare, Natalie and Eve. In parenting, he and his wife Amy consistently strive to provide their girls with an environment that focuses on integrity, compassion, hard work and enthusiasm.
“Dick was a special man, an unparalleled mentor and a dynamic leader to me and so many others, both inside and outside the surfing community,” said Olivares. “He set an exceptional standard for family, community and support of surfing. In receiving this award, I am not only incredibly appreciative and honored, but also powerfully inspired to live up to Dick’s standards of purpose and compassion.”
“Ryan, Jack and I are humbled to have this award presented annually to a person who exemplifies the dedication, passion, love and leadership that Dick showed the industry,” said Una Baker. ”It is an honor to have CJ be the 2010 recipient of this award. CJ’s love of family and life extends into his dedication to charitable causes, his professional career and his belief in the vitality of the surf industry.”
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Surfing America Mission Statement
The Mission of Surfing America is to promote the growth, competitive success, and positive image of surfing in the USA and to provide the best possible experience for all participants by encouraging, developing, advancing, and administrating the sport–while producing champions.
Press Contact:
Mike Gerard
Surfing America, Inc.
33157-B Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Tel 949-276-4660 ext. 25
Fax 949-496-9190
mikegerard@surfingamerica.org
About Surfing America, Inc.
Surfing America is the ISA-recognized National Governing Body for Surfing in the United States. The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the sport’s World Governing Authority.
Created by the Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA) to develop the sport from the ground up, Surfing America is an IRS recognized 501(c) 3 charitable organization and an industry-wide initiative. Key projects include: improving competition standards, hosting national championship events, and selecting and fielding the official United States Surf Team to compete internationally. With its primary emphasis on youth development, Surfing America is a critical element to successfully growing the sport, and business, of surfing on a global basis.
All donations made to Surfing America are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. Donation checks should be made payable to: Surfing America, 33157 Camino Capistrano Suite B San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. End of year tax receipts are sent to every individual donor of more than $250. For donations under $250, a canceled check or credit card statement is sufficient evidence for IRS purposes. Surfing America will send a tax receipt to any donor who requests one. http://surfingamerica.org
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