U.S. Representative Bill Posey, a Republican whose district includes Kelly Slater’s hometown of Cocoa Beach, Florida, joined U.S. Representative Mazie Hirono of Hawaii to introduce a bipartisan resolution recognizing Kelly Slater as an official Surf Ambassador for his numerous lifetime accomplishments and contributions to the sport of surfing. The resolution passed the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously, thus making Slater the first official U.S. Surf Ambassador.

“Slater has worked hard to master a sport that so many have tried but so few have actually been able to conquer,” said Congressman Posey. “His world championship record is impressive and is certainly worthy of recognition.”

“Kelly Slater’s skill and achievements have earned him many fans in Hawaii, the birthplace of surfing,” added Democratic Congresswoman Mazie Hirono. “Two decades after winning his first professional surf contest, we in the islands are proud of our part-time resident as he continues to add to his string of successes out on the waves.”

Congressman Posey’s staff pointed out Slater’s impact on the surf industry, including 10 percent growth over the past five years and annual sales of $7.22 billion. Posey’s staff also mentioned Ron Jon Surf Shop, which opened in Slater’s home town of Cocoa Beach in 1963 and currently brings in $50 million in annual revenue while employing 500 workers.

The title of U.S. Surf Ambassador can now be added to Kelly Slater’s enormous list of career accomplishments, which include a record nine career ASP World Championships, a record 42 career ASP World Tour victories, and a 2002 induction into the Surfers Hall of Fame.