National title for para surfer Sean
Sean began surfing casually five years ago, and only really took to it during the last two years.
In the surfing world, the name Shaun Tomson is internationally recognised, the former Durbanite being regarded as one of the top 10 surfers of all time. He’s now living in the United States of America, but interestingly, has a namesake who arguably has as much passion for the sport, even if he only took it up a few years ago.
The Ramsgate local, who is a member of South Shore Surf Club, spells his name slightly differently – Sean Thompson – but he loves nothing more than being in the waves. He recently took part in the Tyre Life Solutions SA Para Surfing Championships at Durban’s New Pier. It was a national competition, which saw 46 of South Africa’s best para surfers compete. The event has a range of divisions, according to disability to ensure a level playing field for all competitors.
Despite the fierce competition, Ramsgate local, Sean (21) won the All Inclusive Division with impressive rides of an 8.5 and 7.8. This allowed Sean to win the division with a heat total of 16.3 out of 20.
The competition was hosted by Made for More, a local NPO that equips and empowers people with disabilities through sport. The All Inclusive Division comprises competitors with Down’s Syndrome, autism and any other physical, intellectual or social disabilities.
Sean began surfing casually five years ago, and only really took to it during the last two years. He joined the South Shore Surf Club last year. It was Sean’s first time competing in an actual competition and his family and friends were thrilled at how well he did. According to Sean’s mom, Zonika Thompson, Sean didn’t sleep for almost two days while in Durban because he was so excited.
Sean’s other hobbies include CrossFit, dancing and listening to music. He also has a part time job at a factory which he loves, especially when it comes to socialising with fellow employees. His mom describes him as a larger than life person. “Almost everyone on the South Coast knows Sean, he absolutely loves people. Some of them don’t even know my name, they just know me as ‘Sean’s mom’,” Zonika joked. She added that people should never feel discouraged, regardless of their circumstances, because anything can be accomplished through hard work.
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