ONE PADDLE. A PURPOSE TO HELP MANY.
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2026
BEN DID GO 11.0 is a 32-mile prone paddleboard fundraising event - from Catalina Island to Newport Beach - to support the critical missions of the Ben Carlson Foundation.
MAKING WAVES TO CHAMPION
OCEAN SAFETY
AROUND THE WORLD.
ONE PADDLE.
A PURPOSE TO HELP MANY.
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2026
BEN DID GO 11.0 is a 32-mile prone paddleboard fundraising event - from Catalina Island to Newport Beach - to support the critical missions of the Ben Carlson Foundation.
MAKING WAVES TO CHAMPION
OCEAN SAFETY AROUND THE WORLD.
ABOUT THE BEN CARLSON FOUNDATION
The Ben Carlson Memorial & Scholarship Foundation was formed in the wake of Newport Beach Lifeguard Ben Carlson’s final rescue that claimed his life on July 6, 2014. Taking into consideration the things that truly mattered to Ben, your support will enable the BCMSF to continue its lasting impact in our local community and around the world.
YOUR DONATIONS
Sponsoring my participation in the 32-mile Ben Did Go 11.0 open water crossing of the Catalina Channel will directly fund the impactful efforts of the Ben Carlson Memorial & Scholarship Foundation. The BCMSF has already generated millions of dollars supporting:
- Scholarships for Continued Education in Water Safety
- Governmental Water Safety Advocacy
- International Lifeguard Resource Outreach
- Newport Beach Junior Lifeguards
- Swim & Water Safety After-School Programs in at-risk communities
People say you should do things that scare you. Floating on a 14-foot long prone paddleboard in the middle of the Catalina Channel terrifies me.
Last year, I trained for months but didn't qualify for the 2025 Ben Did Go. It was disappointing, but it taught me that earning a place at the starting line demands dedication, discipline, and respect for the ocean.
I've changed my body, my training, and my daily habits to take on this challenge.
What keeps me going is the encouragement and inspiration given of the incredible water men and women I've met along the way. They introduced me to this sport and remind me that water safety should never be taken for granted.
Everyone who loves the ocean should be aware of the life-saving mission of the Ben Carlson Foundation.
DONATE $100 OR MORE
As a Thank You for your donation of $100 or more, I will make for you a pint of ice cream -
YOU CHOOSE THE FLAVOR.
Together, let’s make something sweet while making a real impact!
Click on the ice cream container to donate and get your homemade customized pint of ice cream!
JOIN ME. MAKE AN IMPACT.
Every Dollar Makes A Difference.
Thank You For Your Support
JOIN ME. MAKE AN IMPACT.
Every Dollar Makes A Difference.
Thank You For Your Support