ATLANTIC BEACH, N.C. -- Nearly 100 surfers traveled to Atlantic Beach this weekend to compete in memory of one of their own.
The 17th annual Buddy Pelletier Memorial Longboard Classic honors the Crystal Coast surfing legend who left a mark in the surfing community.
Buddy competed around the world, but friends and family say Eastern North Carolina always held a special place in his heart.
The contest is their way of sharing his passion for surfing, and recognizing the true meaning of the sport -- family.
"Competing, it brings out a different side of you, but it's the people that make it. Home is where you're happiest, and, whether it's two hours away or your backyard, it's still the people that make the contest, and it really is home away from home," said surfer Kat Neff.
Proceeds from the contest go towards awarding scholarships to students who have community service involvement and a passion for surfing.
For more information on the Buddy Pelletier Surfing Foundation and contest, visit their website.