On the 30^th May our surfers took to the waves from 8am until 8pm, many of whom were experiencing their first-ever large-scale surf event.

Throughout the day, 24 adaptive surfers took to the water, supported by a team of dedicated volunteers and four non-disabled surfers who committed to the full 12 hours (with comfort breaks). Among them was volunteer Mark Harris, who by 5pm (when his watch battery gave up) had already paddled an astonishing 19 miles, with three hours to go.

Thanks to the incredible efforts of everyone involved and the generosity of our supporters we raised over £21,000 (including Gift Aid). A special shoutout goes to the 23 local businesses who sponsored the challenge, your backing helped make this event possible.

There was plenty happening on the beach too, with our team promoting Summer Raffle tickets and pre-loved wetsuits and a constant stream of holidaymakers stopping by to find out more about our Surf Therapy programmes.

The day meant so much to the people who took part:

Stephen Lightbown said: “Being part of the Surfathon was an incredible feeling. The Wave Project is an amazing organisation, and to see all of the volunteers and surfers come together for 12 hours of wonderful surfing was brilliant to see. Without  charities like The Wave Project, people like me wouldn’t be able to surf. I’m so grateful for everything they do to champion adaptive surfing.”

Sharon, Freddie’s Mum said: “Freddie loved it!  On the day his surf buddies were every bit as enthusiastic and passionate about the surfing as they always are – including, and especially, the ones who’d been in the sea for 9 hours by the time of Freddie’s slot.  Freddie is very proud of this Surfathon t-shirt and has been showing it to all his friends.  We are hoping he can build a collection by participating in future challenges.”

Sally – Zoe’s Mum said: “Zoe has always loved the water. Surfing at The Wave project has given her a new way of enjoying the sea where she can feel the excitement of surfing. The surfathon introduced her to more of the Wave s great instructirs and helpers and talking about the event coming up with friends and family helped her feel part of a big event. She had a great time. For me seeing her take part in, and get support for a fantastic organisation with fantastic people that give her confidence is great too.”

We couldn’t be more proud of every single person who took part, supported, donated or cheered us on. Thank you for making our first 12-hour Inclusive Surfathon such a huge success.

To continue this work year-round and ensure that more people like Zoe and Freddie can access the benefits of Adaptive Surfing, please consider setting up a regular donation today.