The Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA) will honor surfing legend Tom Curren as Waterman of the Year, environmental leader Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. as Environmentalist of the Year, and iconic surfboard shaper Al Merrick with the 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award, as part of the association’s annual Waterman’s Weekend environmental fundraiser.

The 2010 Waterman’s Weekend will be held July 8-9 and will raise funds for 19 ocean conservation organizations. The weekend begins Thursday, July 8, with the Waterman’s Classic Golf Tournament at the Monarch Beach Golf Links, and culminates on Friday, July 9, with the 21st annual Waterman’s Ball and auction to be held at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, Calif.

“The SIMA Board of Directors and Environmental Fund are humbled by the honorees selected for Waterman’s Weekend 2010,” said Paul Naude, Chairman of the Waterman’s Weekend Event Committee and President of the SIMA Environmental Fund Board of Directors. “On behalf of the surf industry, SIMA is proud to honor a duo like no other, Tom Curren and Al Merrick, for their unique and powerful influence on the sport and industry of surfing. We are also incredibly thrilled to celebrate Robert F. Kennedy’s commitment to protecting and preserving the ocean and waterways at the 21st annual Waterman’s Ball.”