Zoe Smith: Bridging the Gap in Para-Surfing

In a groundbreaking achievement, Zoe Smith, the newly crowned World Para Surfing Champion, has made waves by emphasizing that surfing is not just for the able-bodied, but is indeed 'attainable' for anyone with a disability. Winning gold in the stand 2 category at the ISA World Para Surfing Championships in Huntington Beach, California, last month marked a significant milestone in her journey since taking up the sport just three years after having her leg amputated due to an accident.

"It's crucial for me to represent within the disabled community and show everyone that this sport can be accessible," Smith shared in a heartfelt interview. "Through my competitions, I aim to represent the narrative of those who have experienced life-altering injuries, and who are rediscovering their passion for physical activities, especially in the water."

Despite her impressive triumph, Zoe highlights the notable challenges faced by amputees in para-surfing. She points out, "It’s really hard for amputees to get in the water because we don’t have sufficient provisions for waterproof prosthetics."

Accompanying Smith in her triumph was Charlotte Banfield, who also bagged gold in the stand 3 category, contributing to Team England’s strong performance, finishing seventh overall in a highly competitive landscape.

Training takes place at The Wave, an inland surfing lake near Bristol, where dedicated coaches volunteer to support these talented athletes. However, the excitement of the recent championships is tempered by news that para-surfing has been overlooked for a spot at the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles. Phil Williams, the para team manager for Surfing England, expressed disappointment, stating, "It meant a funding opportunity we were counting on was gone. All of these athletes are funding their journeys independently, making it incredibly challenging."

While para-surfing lost out to para-climbing for Olympic recognition, hopes remain high for inclusion in future games, particularly in Brisbane, Australia in 2032. Williams emphasized, "The journey to reach this stage is commendable and should serve as a launchpad for the future."

Despite these hurdles, Zoe Smith remains optimistic, stressing the need for greater sponsorship to facilitate participation in international competitions. "The costs associated with being a disabled athlete can be monumental," she cautioned. Nevertheless, she speaks proudly of her community, stating, "We're a solid team, filled with incredible talent and spirit."

Zoe's achievements not only inspire her peers but also shine a light on the potential for broader acceptance and growth within para-surfing as it navigates its way into the future of competitive sports.