Mick Fanning is the Waterman of the Year 2016 by the Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA).
The three-time world surfing champion from Sydney, Australia, will be honored at the 27th Annual Waterman's Weekend between August 5th-6th 2016, in Laguna Beach, California.
Fanning, who has never had an easy road throughout his career, experienced last season one of the most difficult years in his life. He survived a shark attack, and lost a brother while battling for a world title until the last waves.
SIMA will also award Chilean big wave explorer Ramón Navarro as the 2016 Environmentalist of the Year. Navarro is working restlessly to country's vibrant surf spots, including the iconic Punta de Lobos, which is threatened by construction activities.
Last but not least, Simon Anderson will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. The inventor of the thruster fin setup changed the course of surfing by introducing a third and central fin in the classic twin fin paradigm.
SIMA's Waterman's Ball is expected to raise $400,000 for 18 ocean conservation groups. The Surf Industry Manufacturers Association was founded in 1989 and represents 300 surf industry players.
