Liz is crossing the channel in the BEN DID GO 10.0

It’s time! This September, I’ll be joining a group of brave, committed individuals to paddle 30 miles across the Catalina Channel, from Avalon to the Newport Beach Pier in this year’s BEN DID GO 10.0. I’m beyond honored (and honestly still a little shocked) to have committed to such a challenge. I’ve been lucky enough to be picked up by a wonderful group of paddlers who are always getting after it (follow us on instagram to see our journey @prone2paddle.)

Funny enough, I just happened to be on the beach at Blackies last year when the paddlers came in. I had no idea what it was, but I was fascinated. I promised myself that one day, I’d do it. Little did I know how much work, time, and money this sport demands. Coming from a high schooler making 16.50, VESL boards aren’t cheap. But I don’t break promises to myself. So, I worked two jobs, bought all my gear, and have spent the last few months, along with the next three, training to keep that promise. As intense and fun as the training can be, we’re not just paddling to paddle. We are paddling with a purpose. Our group goal is to help raise over $250,000 for the Ben Carlson Foundation, honoring the life of Newport Beach lifeguard Ben, who gave his life during his last rescue in 2014. Over the past 10 years, the foundation has done so much from giving college scholarships, promoting water safety, and helping lifeguards around the world, to supporting Junior Lifeguard programs right here in Newport. And of course, The Ben Did Go Paddle which is all about coming together to honor Ben and support something way bigger than ourselves. I’m proud to be part of it.

Please consider donating to support this incredible cause—and to help me keep paddling for something bigger. Anything and everything helps 🙂🌊🧡