Not even two weeks into 2018 and Jersey Surf alumnus BEN ADLER has already accomplished an amazing feat. Over the course of a four-day span, Ben ran in four races – a 5K, 10K, a half marathon, and finally a full marathon – for a total of 48.6 miles as a participant in Walt Disney World’s annual “Dopey Challenge.”

“Finishing this insane endurance challenge would not have been possible without the time I spent marching with Surf when I was younger” Ben reflected. “Surf taught me that I can push my personal boundaries past any comfortable position.” Ben was a member of the 2003 through 2007 editions of the Jersey Surf, marching in the baritone and euphonium sections. Ben says he used his time at Surf as motivation while running the races.

“Every time I thought about quitting I would remind myself: ‘you slept on a bus for five summers,’ ‘you rehearsed way more tired than this,’ ‘your legs hurt worse than this after move-ins… so keep moving.’ Pushing myself further than I had ever pushed to get the desired result is what made my time at Surf amazing, and that determination has led me to some incredible accomplishments – including completing the Dopey Challenge.”

After his years as a member of the Surf, Ben moved to Orlando, Florida as part of the Disney College Program. Upon completing the program, he stayed in Orlando working for hospitality industry giants including Disney and Marriot.

Today Ben works in hotel management at the Universal Orlando Resort and stays connected to the corps, volunteering for when he can. During 2017 Ben hoped on tour for a few days to help with selling merchandise and assisting with the prop truck. The members of the 17 especially enjoyed Ben’s generous donation of post-show snacks following one of the Florida performances. He’s already looking forward to taking part in the southern swing of the 2018 summer tour.

Congratulations on your amazing accomplishment Ben, and keep “Sharing the Love!” We are currently looking for alumni to feature in our Alumni Spotlight. Please email alumni@jerseysurf.org if you or former marching member you know has a story we should share.