THE Masters Division win at the SA Bodyboarding Championships in Cape Town recently came as a surprise for Hillcrest resident Ryan Marlin as he said he was stacked against highly experienced riders.

Having previously placed second and third at SA Champs, Marlin knew the importance of staying focused.

“This achievement is dedicated to the support of my family, and especially my partner, Liesl, for her encouragement and sacrifices when it comes to competing,” he said.

Speaking about his bodyboarding journey, he said he began competing in the late 1990s and earned his KZN Colours in 2001.

Also read: Kloof teen takes on SA’s best women bodyboarders at SA champs

“After a break from competitive surfing, I returned to the sport in 2022, competing in the Masters Division. Since then, I have continued to represent the eThekwini Bodyboarding Association (EBA) and have earned my KZN Colours consecutively from 2023 to 2026.”

To prepare for the SA champs, Marlin said apart from free surfing, the team had scheduled training sessions every Sunday.

“These sessions focus on improving fitness and core strength, developing effective heat strategies, strengthening teamwork, and building the mental focus and resilience needed to perform at our best during SA Champs.”

Looking ahead, his goal is to spend as much time in the water as possible while continuing to improve his riding skills and overall fitness.

“I’m committed to pushing myself toward becoming a stronger competitor. If all goes to plan, I aim to try out for the team in 2027,” he said, adding that bodyboarding is a fantastic sport that offers so much more than the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and improve fitness.

“The perseverance, discipline, and mental focus required to continually develop your riding skills are valuable qualities that can be carried into other areas of life.”

Refine your water skills

He encouraged riders of all ages, especially the younger groms, to follow EBA on social media and get involved.

Whether you’re interested in competing or simply want to get advice, refine your skills, and gain more confidence in the water, Marlin said there is something to be gained from participating.

Also read: Local riders take on SA’s best

“The team has a really positive, supportive, and welcoming culture, making it a great environment in which to learn, grow, and enjoy the sport. Everything the team gets to do is made possible through the generosity of our sponsors and the tremendous effort of our chairman Darrin Boucher, team manager Mike Steveni, captain Sihle Xaba, and vice captain Nicolas Westman.”

He also acknowledged Michael van Huyssteen whom he described as a secret weapon.

“Michael competed in his 39th SA Champs this year! His incredible experience, knowledge of the sport, and understanding of contest surfing continue to be invaluable assets to the team,” said Marlin.

Throughout the year EBA hosts various social surfs and clinics, which are advertised on social media. You can follow the association on Instagram (@ethekwinibodyboarding) and Facebook (eThekwini Bodyboarding Association) to stay up to date. Team trials generally take place around March each year.

For more from the Highway Mail, follow us on Facebook , X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter here