Sugar, the 14-year-old surfing dog, was immortalized Thursday as the first animal ever inducted into the Surfers’ Hall of Fame, in a heartwarming ceremony held in front of Huntington Surf & Sport on Main Street. Known for her multiple World Dog Surfing Championships and Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge titles, Sugar’s impact on the surfing world is undeniable. But for her owner, Ryan Rustan, Sugar’s significance extends far beyond her athletic achievements.
Rescued at just 7 months old from the streets of Oakland, Sugar became a beacon of hope in Rustan’s life. Struggling with mental health and addiction issues, Rustan turned his life around in his late 20s, just as Sugar entered the picture. The bond between the two, forged through years of companionship, has not only inspired a successful surfing career but has also provided emotional healing for many, including children and athletes with disabilities who have participated in surf therapy sessions with Sugar.
“I never would have imagined in my wildest dreams that [Sugar] is exactly why I’d turn my life around, right here,” Rustan said, visibly moved. “This is just so special.”
The ceremony, attended by all seven members of the Huntington Beach City Council and local dignitaries, celebrated Sugar’s lasting influence on the sport of dog surfing. Newly appointed Mayor Pat Burns and Mayor Pro Tem Casey McKeon both paid tribute to the duo’s contributions to the local community. McKeon, who first met Sugar at a City Council meeting earlier this year, expressed his gratitude for the recognition.
“Because of Sugar, we started a shredder division. Because of Sugar, we had dogs from all over the world come surf,” said Lisa Scolman, who organized the Surf City Surf Dog event. “Everyone wanted to surf against Sugar and Ryan.”
Sugar, who has claimed 19 titles in her career, now joins the ranks of surfing icons in the Surfers’ Hall of Fame, an honor reserved for those who have made an indelible mark on the sport and culture of surfing. This year’s human inductees included Jeff Deffenbaugh, Jamie O’Brien, and Ilima Kalama.
Rustan, who now shares his love for surfing with two other canine companions, said that he dreams of taking Sugar to surf in Waikiki, continuing their adventures together. Reflecting on his late father, Robin, who used to surf with Rustan at Bolsa Chica State Beach, Don Ramsey remarked, “I just know right now your dad is smiling up above and totally stoked about this recognition for Sugar.”
While Sugar’s championship titles are impressive, it’s her role as a therapy dog and community figure that has left the deepest impression. Rustan emphasized, “She does a lot of surf therapy for lots of kids. It’s not just about competing; it’s about putting smiles on the little kids’ faces and the athletes that are disabled. She gets to ride with them.”
With Sugar’s paw print forever in the concrete, the legacy of this extraordinary dog continues to inspire and bring joy to those lucky enough to meet her.
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