2025 Rincon Classic Celebrates 43 Years as Santa Barbara’s Premier Surf Event

CARPINTERIA, Calif. — The 2025 Channel Islands Surfboards Rincon Classic, presented by Merrick Lager, is celebrated its 43rd year as the oldest and most revered surf contest in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties this past weekend.

Surfers said it was the perfect February weekend to head to the classic with family and friends.

“The spirit of surfing is still alive. I started surfing when I was 11 years old in Carpinteria, and I’m 72 now,” said attendee Steve Wright.

The Rincon Classic is known as a locals-only event and serves as a gathering every winter.

“I was in the Super Legends today, which is the oldest group,” said competitor Dave Johnson. “A week from now, I’ll be 72 years old, and I’m riding a six-six out there today.”

This year also marks the 25th anniversary of Surf Happens producing the event under the leadership of founder Chris Keet.

“Everyone comes together, and it’s just a perfect weekend. We’re here at, you know, the best waves in California. We love this place, we love each other, and all the proceeds from our raffle are going to our brothers and sisters down south, for the victims of the Los Angeles fires,” Keet said.

The weather was on everyone's side. Under sunny skies with limited wind, surfers were stoked to hit the waves.

“The waves out there were really good today. Oh my gosh, they’re perfect for us old dudes—not too big, but big enough to really get some speed and do something with it,” Johnson said.

Your NewsChannel’s Shawn Quien also competed in the Rincon Classic and is shown in the picture below carving it up during the event.