Ocean City Community Comes Together for Surf Fest

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Heavy fog wasn't enough to stop surfers from promoting a good cause. The 16th annual Chip Miller Surf Fest took place Friday on 7th Street Beach, kicking off a weekend of events supporting the Chip Miller Amyloidosis Foundation.

The grassroots family event has garnered surfing superstars such as Bethany Hamilton, Brad Gerlach and Rob Machado.

"What we're all about is bringing families and community together," said Lance Miller, president of the CMAF. "That's what my father loved and enjoyed."

The Miller family founded the 0rganization after Chip Miller died from amyloidosis in 2004.

Amyloidosis occurs when abnormal protein, or amyloid, builds up in one or more organs to cause malfunctions, according to chipmiller.org. The protein originates in bone marrow. The organs directly affected by the disease are the heart, kidneys, nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.

While there is no cure, treatment has focused on limiting on further production of the Amyloid protein through medicine and proper diet. Some of the signs and symptoms include shortness of breath, severe fatigue, weakness, diarrhea, enlarged tongue and weight loss.

Chip and Lance shared passions such as Corvettes, racing, cars and the beach. Lance collected Corvettes and founded Carlisle Events, a collector car and truck promotion company in Pennsylvania.

"Just an awesome event," said Chad Gallagher, a friend of the Miller family. "Lots of contests in the summer and this is one of those events you cannot miss. It brings the best surfers in the community together, and the top guys support it."

A big staple of the event was Rob Kelly, a local surfing phenom. He signed autographs and took photos with kids. He was promoting the South Jersey Boardriders Association, a nonprofit group that promotes surfing and performs charitable works.

"The competition is an easy way to bring people together," Kelly said. "Board members are former pro surfers and shop managers. We mentor the kids that want to learn and we also give back through charity."

While the surfing event is billed as a contest, there are no winners or losers. All participating are raising awareness and money for amyloidosis, a greater cause than just surfing.

After the "Surf Fest," the CMAF hosted "Taste of Ocean City" at the Ocean City Water Park. Lance's wife, Michelle, works with local restaurants for donations and the community comes together for support. Giveaways include iWatches and GoPros.

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