Meet Leo Harrington

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leo Harrington.

Hi Leo, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
THERAsurf was started in 2006 with the intention of allowing people of all ages that posses a disability to reap the benefits of the ocean. Whether it is coming down to the beach to get some sand on their feet or riding their first wave with one of our instructors, the goal has always been to use the power of mother nature to brighten someone’s day. My name is Leo Harrington, and I grew up in Malibu, CA. I am fortunate to have grown up surfing and lifeguarding in the area and watched Therasurf come to life. I started as a THERAsurf instructor in 2008 and went on to take over the organization from the founders, Kim Bordenave and Jimmy Gamboa, in 2018. Our board of directors is made up of a wonderful and talented group of local teachers, lifeguards/firefighters and professional surfers that are all extremely dedicated to improving the lives of those around them. The board members are currently Kevin McCarthy, Charity Britton, Travis Collings, Erik Stranberg, Dillon Perillo, and Jordan Cohen.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
THERAsurf is, and always be, a grass root organization. It is all made possible because of the support we receive from the local Malibu and surrounding Los Angeles community. From the surfers in the water assisting the THERAsurf athletes to donations we are given to keep the organization running, it all stems from a tight-knit community with the Pacific Ocean as our common denominator. With that being said, some of our biggest obstacles derive from being a smaller organization and keeping everything up to date with the amount of donations that we receive annually, Fortunately, we have a loyal group of people involved that believe in the power of THERAsurf, and have helped keep us afloat in times when we needed them most!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have formed my career around the water and try not to stray too far or else I go a little mad! I have been teaching surfing in Malibu for close to twenty years, as well as lifeguarding for the State Of California for fifteen. I work in the Motion Picture industry as a safety diver, jet ski operator, and surf trainer for actors pursuing their next roles. I started my business, Westward Marine & Surf Co. this year, and I am looking forward to improving individuals’ specific needs in the ocean. Like I said, my goal was clearly never to get too far from the coast, and the plan is working thus far.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The biggest lesson I learned from Covid was how important it is for people to be outside. Ocean dips, barefoot walks, or just sitting on a bench in a park it is all fundamental for a healthy life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.therasurf.org/
• Instagram: @therasurf
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=therasurf

Image Credits
Keegan Gibbs Hunter Martinez Travis Collings Mexilogfest Eamon Harrington