World Dog Surfing Championship returns to Pacifica for 10th anniversary with risk of rip currents

PACIFICA, Calif. (KGO) -- One of the Bay Area's most fun events is back and ready to make a splash.

"It is like a big hug for dog lovers. Everybody is so happy. There's dogs everywhere," said Kristina Welsh.

On Saturday, Pacifica will host the tenth annual World Dog Surfing Championship.

One of those competing this year is 12-year-old Koa, a rescue dog and cancer survivor.

Her owner, Kristina Welsh, says while Koa's always loved the water, she started surfing six years ago.

"I had my niece on a surfboard to get her used to the water, but she was afraid of the water. She loves dogs so I put my dog on there with her. And by the end of the day they were just pushing each other off and had a blast," said Welsh.

MORE: Who's the top dog? Wave-riding canines compete in World Dog Surfing Championships in Pacifica

The event draws people from around the world.

And even though it is a competition, there's a real sense of friendship among those who participate.

"They love to come to see the surfing dogs. It's just a very unique event. I can't explain it, but we come and there's so many dogs competing but the community just rallies for it," said Jill Nakano.

While the competition is set to be a good time, safety is always a top concern for contestants.

That's especially true this year, with an advisory still in effect for sneaker waves and rip currents along the Bay Area shoreline.

The potential hazards that come with those dangerous conditions were seen last weekend when a lifeguard had to save a drowning boy in Santa Cruz.

Welsh says organizers are well aware of the possible hazards and are prepared if conditions are bad.

"It's more impactful for the south facing beaches. So down at Linda Mar I think it's more of a northwest and it's protected so I think we're most likely not going to have that effect," said Welsh.

As for Koa, Welsh doesn't know how many more contests she might compete in.

But she's hoping her story will serve as an inspiration for others for many years to come.

"She's just a story of not giving up. She keeps moving forward, she's confident, she hasn't let anything affect her. And she's just a really bold dog."

The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Linda Mar Beach.