Manhattan Beach surfer issued $1,000 citation for violating beach closure order, disrespecting lifeguard.

A  Manhattan Beach surfer was issued a $1,000 citation Saturday morning after ignoring a lifeguard’s order that he not go in the water.

“F… you. What are you going to do about it,” the surfer said to the lifeguard who confronted him, according to sources who were present during the encounter.

A Manhattan Beach police officer responded by issuing the citation. 

“This is the first time I have ever seen South Bay Beaches empty, from Torrance Beach to El Segundo,” said Rancho Palos Verdes resident Kerry Welsh, who took this photo from his back yard.

All Los Angeles County beaches were ordered closed yesterday to deter the spread of the novel coronavirus. Saturday morning dozens of surfers in the three beach cities violated the order to enjoy a small wind swell .But there have been no other reports of non-compliance from surfers ordered out of the water by lifeguards. Saturday was the first decent day for surfing since all day onshore winds kicked in last week.

Manhattan Beach Police Sergeant Steve Kitsios said Saturday afternoon that no other beach closure violators have been cited and that his department is relying on voluntary compliance.

Hermosa Beach Police Chief Michael McCrary said Thursday, that his officers also are counting on voluntary compliance with the beach closure order, but will issue misdemeanor citations to people who ignore the order.

Surfers on social media expressed general disapproval of the Manhattan Beach surfer’s response to being ordered not to surf. But most also expressed disapproval of the beach closure order.

Longtime South Bay surfer Chris Bredesen wrote on Facebook, “Social distancing while surfing is 100 percent better than going to the market.” 

He explained why. “When I am surfing. No one is ever near me. I am so greedy (for waves), I tell people to stay off my waves, get out of my way and don’t even think of talking to me because I know you are trying to get me off my game and make me miss the next set.”

Bredesen wrote on Facebook, “I support social distancing (for a certain amount of time) and we are all going to get through this. But (and don’t even think about responding if you’re not a surfer, because remember, we have to rely on the experts) to put a ban on surfing or long-distance swimming or paddling is wrong. If you’re looking for an expert, you found him. When I am surfing, stay away from me. No one is ever near me, I am so greedy. Stay off my waves, get out of the way, and don’t even think of talking to me because I know you’re trying to get me off my game and miss the next set ….In all seriousness, social distancing is 100 percent better surfing than going to the market, running, etc … These are facts. From an expert.