Sports photography, do I need a release?

[eclipse13]

I take alot of surfing photos at the beach near my house. I am hoping to get some of the photos published in various local magazines. I know some of the surfers, but I don't know some of them, and I feel like it would be rather awkward to run up to some kid as he is getting out of the water with a sheet of paper and a pen asking him to sign something.

Do I need to releases for these photos?

[studio206]

i know with professional sports you don't because they are all public figures... but i about what you're doing... i could never hurt to try and getting one signed... never know, it could be a great opportunity to meet some cool ppes too. if u tell them what you're trying to do then i'm sure they will be down and a simple model release form so be enough. :-)

[Cannibalized]

i think that if it's just published and isn't advertising anything you don't need a release. not positive. i know editorial work doesn't have to be.