The late Tom Morey, the creator of the iconic boogie board, was celebrated recently by boogie lovers all over the world. 

In San Clémente, Henry Long joined others to paddle out and place roses in the sand in memory of all that Morey has done for the community.


What You Need To Know

  • Tom Morey invented the boogie board in the 1970s

  • Since then, his invention has created a whole new community in the world of surfing

  • His recent death in October has brought boogie boarders together of all backgrounds to paddle out in his honor

  • Henry Long, a long-time boogie boarder, said the boogie board is an accessible water sports experience that individuals of all backgrounds can enjoy

"His recent passing has brought us all together here and we are all united in his lifestyle of the boogie," he said.

Countless of bodyboarders caught one last wave for the life and legacy of Morey, who died in October at the age of 86.

Long began boogie boarding in the 1970s, just as the new sport emerged. Since then, the boogie hasn't left his body, he said.

"Since 70, I've been on a boogie board. And that feeling you get from that first ride is something that you just want to keep going out for more and more. And over the years its kept me on a board and out on the water," Long explained.

Communities of all backgrounds came out to honor Morey and the impact he has made in water sports. One young boarder said he admires Morey's inventive spirit.

"He completely, single handedly, invented a brand new way to surf, a whole new category," said Gio, a boogie boarder who joined others to paddle out for Morey.

Making surfing a much more accessible experience by creating the boogie board, Long said the nature of Morey's invention allows nearly any athletic background to participate.

"This thing can be, from day one at the beach, can be enjoyed by almost anyone," he said.