September 7, 2008 - In only his second surfing competition, Bandit the Biker Dog took second place in the 3^rd Annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon.  There was an estimated crowd of several hundred dogs and more than 2,000 people on hand (and paw) to cheer Bandit on. The event, benefitting the Helen Woodward Animal Center, raised nearly $50,000. Sponsors included The San Diego Surf Academy, Swami’s Surfing Association and Guy Takayama Surf Boards. The event, held at Dog Beach in Del Mar, is being called "a major success."

“We never expected to win anything,” said Mark Shaffer, Bandit’s  owner. “We just came out to have fun and support the Helen Woodward Center.  We appreciate all the work they do with all animals, but especially dogs!”  Bandit wagged his tail quickly in agreement. For more on the Helen Woodward Animal Center, click on the above link or enter the following URL into your browser: http://www.animalcenter.org/

Also on hand was Playboy model Bridget Marquardt of "The Girls Next Door" fame. Marquardt was one of the judges during the "Beach Bum and Bikini Babe Canine Costume Contest" also held at the event.  Bridget took time from her busy schedule to pose with Bandit, and Bandit snuck in a “smooch."