GOVERNOR CRIST APPOINTS KELLY SLATER AS HONORARY MEMBER OF GOVERNOR’S COUNCIL ON PHYSICAL FITNESS

November 8, 2007

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TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today announced the appointment of Kelly Slater to the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness as an honorary member. Slater, a native Floridian and professional surfer, has won eight world titles, his first at age of 20, making him the youngest person to ever win the title.

“Kelly is the most successful professional surfer in the history of the sport,” Governor Crist said. “His life-long commitment to excellence, as well as a healthy, active lifestyle makes him a role model for all Floridians.”

Often referred to as “the world’s greatest surfer,” Slater revolutionized the sport in the early 1990s. The son of a bait shop owner, Kelly is proud of his Florida upbringing. Raised in Cocoa Beach, he first learned how to surf at age five, won his first event at age eight, and at age 10 went to the U.S. Junior Championships in California, where he won his first national amateur title.

“I am so honored to be part of the important work of this council,” Slater said. “I appreciate all Governor Crist is achieving on behalf of the young people of Florida. Not only is he dedicated to preserving the health of all Floridians, he is also dedicated to preserving Florida’s natural beauty so we can all enjoy it in a healthful way.”

Slater is also involved with the World Skin Cancer Foundation, an organization formed to educate the public about the importance of making sun protection a healthy priority. His mother, Judy Slater, serves as vice president on the foundation’s board of directors. This weekend Slater will return to Florida to attend the foundation’s Fall Classic Surf Invitational in Cocoa Beach, featuring Slater and other surfing professionals.

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