We’re hosting a 12-hour Inclusive Surfathon to support Adaptive Surfing 31 March 2025

We will be hosting their first ever sponsored 12-hour Inclusive Surfathon on 30th May 2025, a groundbreaking event to support The Wave Project’s Adaptive Surfing programmes across the UK.

From 8am – 8pm on Croyde Beach in North Devon, a dedicated team of surfers will take on the challenge of riding the waves for 12 hours straight!

We believe that blue spaces are for everyone, and this event is a celebration of inclusivity in surfing – whether you are an adaptive surfer, a non-disabled surfer, a volunteer, or a supporter on the shore.

Leading the charge is Inclusive Lead, Ian Bennett, a man on a mission to help as many people as he can experience the benefits of surfing. Named the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year’s Unsung Hero for the Southwest, Ian has rallied an incredible team for this challenge.

Ian Bennett, Inclusive Lead at The Wave Project, said: “We are so excited to be hosting our first-ever 12-hour Inclusive Surfathon. This event is a true celebration of Adaptive Surfing at The Wave Project and how we continue to break down barriers to surfing. It is a joy to be a part of this groundbreaking work, and we can’t wait to welcome all of our amazing surfers to the beach at Croyde.”

Throughout the action-packed day, The Wave Project’s team of instructors and volunteers will offer continuous support to an incredible lineup of surfers, including Adaptive Surfers who will ride Croyde’s famous waves. Four hardy local surfers will aim to ride the waves continually for the full 12 hours of the Surfathon (with short wellbeing breaks along the way).

Hazel Ackroyd, parent of adaptive surfer Florence, said: “When we were invited to take part in The Wave Project’s Adaptive Surfathon with Florence, the answer was simple – YES! The Wave Project has become such an integral part of our lives over the last 2 years. Florence is never happier than when she is surfing, and the positive impact it has on her is immeasurable. We will do everything we can to support The Wave Project and to help them continue the amazing work they do. Can’t wait to catch some waves!”

This sponsored event will be raising money for The Wave Project’s Adaptive Surfing programmes. These programmes run from four specialist Adaptive Surfing Hubs in the UK: Watergate Bay, Cornwall; Croyde, North Devon; Scarborough, North Yorkshire; and Sandown, Isle of Wight.

The Adaptive Hubs provide:

  • Fully qualified adaptive surf coaches
  • Adapted surf equipment, including seated surfboards, beach wheelchairs and adjustable wetsuits
  • Level access to the beach
  • Access to disability toilets and changing facilities
  • Disabled parking spaces nearby with step-free access

Join us as we celebrate Adaptive Surfing and inclusivity at their 12-hour Inclusive Surfathon. Come on down to Croyde Beach on 30th May from 8am – 8pm, cheer on the surfers, and be part of something truly special!

So far, The Wave Project’s Sponsored Surfathon has raised £2430. Donations can be made via their JustiGiving page – donate here – or head over to The Wave Project website to donate and find out more – click here.  Your donations can help change lives. Help The Wave Project support more adaptive surfers across the UK and donate today.