Durban surfer set to fly SA flag at US para surfing champs
Sabelo Ngema competed in the SA Championships this year to qualify for the US trip.
SECOND-YEAR business law student, Sabelo Ngema, was selected to represent South Africa at the Pismo Beach ISA World Para Surfing Championship, California on December 7 to 11.
He is part of a team of 13 surfers and six management team members selected to participate in this, the biggest adaptive surf competition on the globe. They are members of Made for More, a NPO that strives to empowered those with disabilities through sport.
The Durban University of Technology student said he is proud to fly the SA flag overseas as he represents his country.
“I feel proud of myself and it means more than just a competition, with this I improve my mentality and mindset as well,” added Ngema.
This will be Ngema’s second trip overseas, an experience he relishes.
“I went overseas for the first time last year and my life was upgraded to a whole new level. With this a lot has changed or began, in my personal life, family and community,” he explained.
Also read: Para surfers set to make a splash in USA
Ngema has been diagnosed with Albinism and visual impairment.
“I can’t be out there when it’s sunny without sunscreen or a wetsuit. I also need my guide/coach because without them surfing would be much harder,” he said.
Surfing has given Ngema the confidence to tackle life’s challenges.
“I already feel that I am empowered to be part of the solution of the society’s issues,” he said.
SA National Para Surf team manager, Erika Hendrikz said South Africa came sixth out of 22 countries at last year’s event.
“This year, we hope to be in medal contention with a bigger and more diverse team,” she said.
“Our athletes have shown hard work, bravery and commitment and now have the opportunity to fly the South African flag proudly as they tackle the World’s biggest adaptive surf competition,” added Hendrikz.
Also read: Morningside surfer makes waves
Ngema, like the other athletes on the team, now faces the challenge of raising sponsorship for the trip.
“I hope to find a sponsor for financial support. I am still looking,” said the surfer.
The SA National Para Surf team will need to raise a whopping R860 000 to cover the whole team, said Hendrikz.
“Without funding from government, each team member has the daunting task of raising approximately R45 000 each to cover transport, accommodation, food and competition fees,” she said.
“This excludes the adaptive junior surfers’ parental supervision,” added Hendrikz.
To sponsor Ngema, visit his page: www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/sabelo-ngema
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