GoPro Presents the Barney Miller Claic 05

GoPro Presents the Barney Miller Classic 2015

Surf competition raises money for individuals with Spinal Cord Injury

GoPro, enabler of some of todays most immersive and engaging content, partnered with the Barney Miller Classic to host its annual surf charity competition. Now in its 16th consecutive year, the comp has become Coffs Coast Region's biggest charity event.

Barney's good friend and fellow surfer, Joel Tubby Bath, started the event in 1999. Tubby created it for a design and technology HSC project to help Barney get through a motor vehicle accident that left him with debilitating injuries that restricted him to a wheel chair.

Barney affirmed, After the first few years, the money raised from the contest helped me get through rehab, and in 2005 a surf board was specially designed which allowed me to experience the indescribable rush of riding waves again. From that point of recovery, Barney requested the money raised goes towards people who have found themselves with similar injuries, so they too can eventually experience the same life thrill.

This year all proceeds went to Brisbane local, Tom Ross. Tom is a young surfer who tragically fell from a cliff in Bali earlier this year, breaking his back and neck. Tom's been diagnosed as a T12 incomplete paraplegic, but he's not letting that stop him. He's undergoing extensive rehab in the hope that he can learn to walk again - and he's making incredible progress!

Barney stated, We have raised over $125,000 collectively over the years which has gone to various individuals to offer support and guidance, and this year we hope the money raised can contribute towards Tom's daily needs and recovery.

The Barney Miller Classic enticed an ever-growing number of competitors each year from all over Australia. Divisions included were Cadets, Junior's, Opens, Over 28's, Over 40's Men's and Open and now the Junior Women's.

For more information check out the website HERE.

About Barney Miller

Barney Miller (36) has become an inspiration to many thanks to his strength and determination to not allow his disability affect his passion for life. After being in a car accident back in 1999, Barney sustained a C5/C6 spinal injury, classifying him a quadriplegic. Although these debilitating injuries momentarily restricted him to a wheel chair, Barney has continued to impress doctors and loved ones with the speed of his recovery.

At Barney's request, from 2000 to present, the money raised goes direct to individuals who have Spinal Cord Injury. In 2006, money was donated to start the Mid-north Coast of Disabled Surf Association.

Barney admits, The person who I get my inspiration from is my rock, my fianc Kate Southwell, who is chasing her dreams just like me and has been recording her music album the last two years in LA, while I've been training to have my first dance, at our wedding in May.

As the organiser of this event, along with my committee, we intend to continually build the contest for many years to come and give support to those that need it the most.

Social Links

Facebook/TheBarneyMillerCharitySurfClassic

Instagram @Barney_Miller #BMCLASSIC2015

facebook.com/GoProAU and twitter/GoProAU #GoProAU

LINK:	http://gopro.com/news/gopro-presents-the-barney-miller-classic-2015...
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