Surfathon to be held at Croyde Beach

A 12-hour Inclusive Surfathon to support Adaptive Surfing programmes across the UK is to be held at Croyde Beach on May 30 from 8am to 8pm.

Hosted by The Wave Project, a team of surfers will take on the challenge of riding the waves for 12 hours straight.

The Wave Project believe that blue spaces are for everyone, and this event is a celebration of inclusivity in surfing – whether you are an adaptive surfer, a non-disabled surfer, a volunteer, or a supporter on the shore.

Leading the charge is Inclusive Lead, Ian Bennett, a man on a mission to help as many people as he can experience the benefits of surfing. Named the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year’s Unsung Hero for the Southwest, Ian has rallied an incredible team for this challenge.

Ian Bennett, Inclusive Lead at The Wave Project, said: “We are so excited to be hosting our first-ever 12-hour Inclusive Surfathon. This event is a true celebration of Adaptive Surfing at The Wave Project and how we continue to break down barriers to surfing. It is a joy to be a part of this groundbreaking work, and we can’t wait to welcome all of our amazing surfers to the beach at Croyde.”

Throughout the day, The Wave Project’s team of instructors and volunteers will offer support to a lineup of surfers, including Adaptive Surfers who will ride Croyde’s famous waves.

Hazel Ackroyd, parent of adaptive surfer Florence, said: “When we were invited to take part in The Wave Project’s Adaptive Surfathon with Florence, the answer was simple - YES! The Wave Project has become such an integral part of our lives over the last 2 years. Florence is never happier than when she is surfing, and the positive impact it has on her is immeasurable. We will do everything we can to support The Wave Project and to help them continue the amazing work they do. Can’t wait to catch some waves!”

This sponsored event will be raising money for The Wave Project’s Adaptive Surfing programmes. These programmes run from four specialist Adaptive Surfing Hubs in the UK: Watergate Bay, Cornwall; Croyde, North Devon; Scarborough, North Yorkshire; and Sandown, Isle of Wight.

The Adaptive Hubs provide:

• Fully qualified adaptive surf coaches
• Adapted surf equipment, including seated surfboards, beach wheelchairs and adjustable wetsuits
• Level access to the beach
• Access to disability toilets and changing facilities
• Disabled parking spaces nearby with step-free access