Ken Matsuoka, 8, of Boston rides a wave in on a surfboard during Special Surfer Night at Gooches Beach in Kennebunk on Monday. Special Surfer Night was started by Nanci Boutet in 2004 and provides a chance for anyone with special needs to experience surfing. There are two more sessions this summer, one on July 18 and another on August 15. Staff Photo by Gregory Rec

Teagan McGlone, 13, rides a surfboard into the shallows during Special Surfer Night. It was the first time McGlone, who has Down's Syndrome, participated in the event. Staff Photo by Gregory Rec

Ben Battis, 13, of New Hampshire, rides a wave during Special Surfer Night. Battis, who has autism, has been participating in Special Surfer Night for nine years. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

Volunteers Oliver Webb, left, and Zeke Narcise help steady Teagan McGlone, 13, while he prepares to catch a wave during Special Surfer Night. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

Teagan McGlone of Limington, 13, is all smiles as he rides a wave during Special Surfer Night. Watching behind him are volunteers Zeke Narcise, left, and Oliver Webb. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

A surfer and volunteer ride a surfboard over a wave while heading out. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

Nearly 100 sufers and 250 volunteers showed up for Special Surfer Night. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

As they head out through waves, volunteer Tim Reidman holds hands with surfer Ken Matsuoka, 8, who came from Boston with his family. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

Two lines of volunteers help Cynthia Verrill, 15, of New Hampshire ride a wave. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

A wave envelopes Colin Jamieson, 7, of South Portland as he surfs. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

Volunteers Jenna Roberge, left, and Hannah Reidman, back, laugh with Colin Jamieson, 7, of South Portland. It was the second time that Jamieson, who has autism, has participated in Special Surfer Night. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

Colin Jamieson, 7, of South Portland holds his hands in the air in celebration after riding a wave to shore. Staff Photo by Gregory Rec