Para surfers set to make a splash in USA
The surfers are members of Made for More, a non-profit organisation (NPO) and public benefit organisation that aims to include, empower and equip people with disabilities through sport.
MORNINGSIDE and Glenwood residents are among 19 surfers who were selected to represent South Africa at the World Para Surfing Championships in December.
The surfers are members of Made for More, a non-profit organisation (NPO) and public benefit organisation that aims to include, empower and equip people with disabilities through sport.
“We are so proud to announce that 13 surfers and six management members have been selected to represent South Africa at the World Para Surfing Championships in Pismo Beach, California in the Unites States of America from the December 7 to 11. The entire South African team consists of 19 members, the biggest and best contingent to date,” said the founding director of Made for More, Julia Van Zyl.
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The surfers who qualified are Sabelo Ngema, Tracy McKay, David Williams, Doug Hendrikz, James Sinclair, Oliver Sinclair, Alulutho Tshoba, Erynn Geddie, Daniel Nel, Michele Macfarlane, Jean-Paul Veaudry, Caleb Swanepoel and Noluthando Makalima. The management team includes Erika Hendrikz (manager), Leon Van Zyl (head coach), Scott Messenger (coach), Yvonne Messenger (coach), Owami Zama (coach) and Dr Helen Millson (physiotherapist/coach)
“Our adaptive surfing crew have shown hard work, bravery and commitment and now get to fly the South African flag proudly as they tackle to biggest competition in the world. Last year, South Africa came 6th out of 24 countries. This year, we hope to be in medal contention with a bigger and more diverse team,” said Van Zyl.
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The team hopes to raise the funds needed make the trip overseas.
“With no support or funding from government, each team member has the daunting task of raising R40 000 each to cover transport, accommodation, food and competition fees. This is a total of R750 000 to cover the entire South African team. As an organisation, we want to help facilitate and support our athletes and this process,” said Van Zyl.
To help sponsor an athlete, visit Made for More’s Given Gain crown funding campaign or contact the NPO for more options. Alternatively, visit www.madeformore.org.za or contact Made for More on 083 235 1083 or email meghan@madeformore.org.za.
