Babylon Surfer Charlie Bunger Makes Suffolk Sports Hall Of Fame

BABYLON, NY—Charlie Bunger, surfing pioneer from Babylon and founder of Bunger Surf Shop, was named as a 2022 inductee to the Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame. The late Babylon resident is one of 21 Long Island sports figures named, including "Karate Kid" Ralph Macchio.

Bunger died in 2018 at age 77. He was known for building surfboards, founding and operating Bunger Surf Shop in Babylon Village for 56 years, and advancing the sport on Long Island.

Bunger Surf Shop is still owned by the Bunger family, making it one of the longest-running family-owned surf businesses in the country.

The Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame will hold an induction ceremony in May.

“This induction class packs a heavy punch of historic significance,” Chris R. Vaccaro, Executive Director of the Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame, said. “From athletes to journalists, coaches to local icons and officials, the class has an amazing blend of individuals who have made their mark and have reached the pinnacle of success in their respective disciplines. We’re looking forward to honoring them this spring.”

Bunger was previously inducted into the East Coast Surfing Half of Fame and the International Surfboard Builders Hall of Fame.

Former major league baseball pitcher Billy Koch, who went to West Babylon High School, is also part of this year's Hall of Fame roster. Sam Apuzzo, also of West Babylon, was named for her standout college lacrosse career at Boston College.