An annual surfing competition known as the MayDay Memorial Classic takes place annually on Mother’s Day weekend in Flagler Beach. Dollie Sue Watson, who died unexpectedly in 2006 of heart disease, is honored at the event. Dollie Sue was a caring mother, spouse, ICU medical caretaker, and staple locally.
Professional and amateur surfers from all over the country participate in the competition, which includes longboard and shortboard divisions. The Center for Cardiology at Halifax Health receives all event proceeds to support heart health education and community access to world-class healthcare. The May Day Memorial Classic is a well-liked community event that both honors the memory of a respected surfing community member and celebrates the sport of surfing.
Haley Watson-Stephens is the founder and president of the MayDay Memorial Classic. Haley is a 2x USA Public Riding Champion and 5x East Coast Ladies’ Riding Champion. She is an active philanthropist who organizes the MayDay Surf Classic each year to raise awareness and combat heart disease, particularly among women. She started this to respect her mom, Dollie Sue Watson, after she passed away from heart disease in 2006 at the age of 48.
The MayDay Memorial Surf Classic has raised and given away $54,156.00 since its inception to support Halifax Health’s Center for Cardiology. “My goals are to always do my best and make my family, friends, and fans proud,” Haley declares. “You can accomplish anything you set your mind to with hard work! I need to set a positive model and be a job.”
