Adaptive Surfing Champs changed my life
I really did not realise what I was in for when I signed up to go to the Adaptive Surfing World Champs in California last year. I had helped at a couple of Adaptive surfing clinics, I was aware of how inspiring these were, but I was not prepared to witness the level of inspirational bravery and camaraderie that I witnessed at this event.
The Project
After chatting with the team and Surfing South Africa, we all decided that Adaptive Surfing in Sa needed some exposure. They needed their story to be told. I put up my hand to follow the team’s journey and to film it for a documentary. For that purpose I filmed a few clinics, training sessions and went to the ISA Adaptive World Champs in La Jolla, Sand Diego.
The Adaptive Surfers
Watching the process these surfers go through, each time they want to surf, blew my mind. Watching the hardships, the difficulties and even just getting to the water. Never did I see an unhappy face, hear a complaint or even remotely feel any negative emotions. Everyone one there, from the competitors, helpers and even people who just happened along on the beach, had huge smiles on their faces and they left feeling better about themselves and life in general. These peole, these surfers, embodied what surfing is all about.
It Changed my Life
I was severely obese – though most would not have said it – unable to surf a shortboard properly and very unhappy inside. I arrived at this event in turmoil emotionally. I left with a new lease on life, a determination to change my situation and a new feeling of hope. Watching and experiencing the Adaptive World Champs literally inspired me to change my life. No more excuses, no more, I am not surfing as the waves are terrible, no more self pity. These brave and inspiring individuals forced me to look at myself and not only realise how lucky I actually was, but that I had no excuses!
The Movie
I hope you enjoy this film I have made and that it gives you a small taste of what I experienced with these incredible people. Please support them and Adaptive Surfing! You will not regret it for an instant.
Support Adaptive Surfing South Africa – HERE
Watch the 2018 World Champs – HERE
Enjoy the Movie and please share, like and comment! This film needs to be seen by all.