Special-needs kids take to the waves

Noah Burg was one of about 80 children to participate in the event. Courtesy photo.

Devin Kelly got to stand on his board. Courtesy photo.

Blake Schlotthauer couldn't keep a grin off his face. Courtesy photo.

Benjamin Katz was a natural in the water.

About 70 surfers volunteered to teach for the event. Courtesy photo.

Volunteer surfer Aaron Howard was eager to get started.

Bill Knight did a sand sculpture of the Center for Autism Research and Education's logo.

Rafael Kruithof, 6, came out to watch his surfing instructor with his dad, Arne, and brother, Sebastian, not pictured.

Nic Penker, 5, and his dad, Mike, talked about cars with one a sand sculptor, who was on site.