The Sunset Clips Classic competition returned for its fifth year after uncertainty about its future following leadership transitions within the Associated Student Body’s Campus Activities Board (CAB). The event on April 8 at Ryan Library Learning Deck brought student engagement and continued interest in maintaining the tradition.
Sunset Clips Classic drew about 300 students who gathered at 7 p.m. to watch nine student-produced surf films projected on a giant inflatable screen. The featured two- to five-minute films were divided into “Shortboard” and “Anything But A Board” categories, and highlighted student creativity and surf culture along the local coastline.
CAB organizers and student filmmakers worked together to produce the event, which included live music, student-designed visuals, refreshments and in-person voting to determine winners. The outdoor setting on the deck created a viewing experience overlooking the ocean.
Nathan Le, a second-year accounting major and the Sunset Clips Classic committee head, said he was initially unsure how many students would attend. But with hundreds of students in attendance, Le said the strong turnout made the event feel successful and reinforced its impact on campus.
“Seeing everyone’s reactions to the videos and the shirts was super awesome,” Le said, adding that the crowd’s energy made the event feel worthwhile, and that student involvement in the designs and films is what makes the event possible each year.
Le also said the new venue helped shape the experience.
“I think the [Ryan] Learning Deck was great,” Le said. “People liked being outside, and I don’t think anyone was wishing we were somewhere else.” He added that the open layout created a more relaxed atmosphere for attendees.
ASB’s Director of Student Relations, Nathan Blanco, a fourth-year biology major, said he had never attended the event before this year, but was impressed by the experience.
“Honestly, I think coming here I realized how fun it is, and I feel like I missed out on it,” Blanco said.
Blanco said the energy of the night stood out to him, and that aspect alone made him realize what he’s been missing out from this event’s experience.
“I’m loving the band,” Blanco said. “I’m loving just the environment in general too. Everyone’s up and dancing and grooving.”
Planning adjustments also shaped this year’s event experience, according to its organizers. Sunset Clips Classic implemented in-person voting for the films, replacing previous online methods to streamline participation during the event. More than 200 attendees casted votes during the competition, according to Nathan Le.
Attendees were offered free popcorn, LaCroix and Poppi beverages throughout the night. In addition, tote bags and paint supplies were provided for students to paint beach-inspired patterns onto the bags. Spikeball and cornhole games were also available for students to engage in at the event.
Free T-shirts and stickers, designed by students, were distributed throughout the event. Sophie Schmitt, a fourth-year graphic design major, designed the event T-shirts. Elise Lubbers, a second-year graphic design major, designed a sticker and the voting ballot. Lella Aicher, a third-year psychology major, designed a sticker. Finally, Lucy Stadmiller, a first-year nursing major, designed the Instagram post.
Olivia Sear, a first-year environmental science major, said the event stood out because of its energy and atmosphere.
“This is the best event Point Loma puts on,” Sear said. “It’s my favorite. It’s so fun. The vibe is great and everyone’s engaged and I can tell it’s something everyone’s passionate about.”
For student filmmakers, the event served as both a creative outlet and a source of motivation. Jc Gustin, a fourth-year business administration major who won the “Shortboard” category for his film “See You Later, Bud,” said attending last year inspired him to participate and create his own film.
“Going to Sunset Clips last year, I just thought it was a super sick event,” Gustin said. “I really want to do that next, so I made it a priority.”
Gustin described the filmmaking process as dependent on natural conditions, emphasizing the collaborative aspect.
“The mindset was kind of like go with what the waves give us and just make the most of what we get,” Gustin said. “Just being able to hang out with the guys, because they’re super good friends, and it was super fun filming.”
The event featured films shot locally along beaches from Ocean Beach to Sunset Cliffs, reinforcing the connection between the campus and surrounding surf culture. Alongside “See you Later, Bud” winning the “Shortboard” category, “Three Pete” won in the “Anything But A Board” category, with $200 cash prizes awarded to them both.
Le said he hopes the event continues to grow and remain accessible to all students.
“We want everyone to come to the event,” Le said. “It’s not just for surfers. It shows the talent we have on campus and brings people together.”
Adee Tulcan