Big waves brought Special Olympics athletes out in Cocoa Beach, all surfing for a great cause.

Special Olympics Florida and Ron Jon Surf Shop started the surfing program in 2010 with only eight athletes.

The program has since grown and this year athletes come from 16 different counties around Florida; all of them taking part in the surfing competition Saturday.

The reigning champion says he has hometown advantage.

"I caught more waves than the other athletes last year. Got my hometown advantage and I got first place and I did it for my sister Ruth that's up in heaven," said 2013 Champion Jeffrey Glidewell.

Jeffrey says he's surfing for his sister Ruth again this year.