Glen Anil resident surfs to third SA para title

LOCAL surfer David Williams won his third national title at this year’s Sea Harvest South African Para Surfing Championships held at Muizenberg Beach in Cape Town.

The 36-year-old, who was born without legs below the knees, competes in the kneel division.

This was a massive step-up for the Glen Anil resident who finished fourth at last year’s SA Para champs.

“The competition was extremely tough, but I have to give it to my fellow competitor, JP Andrews. He was phenomenal. I ended up winning by 0.5 of a point which goes to show how competitive it was. The scores were a combination over the two days of surfing. It really doesn’t get much closer than that.

“I’m sort of torn between the emotions of joy and heartbreak after they announced the results. Joy because I won, and I felt I had something to prove after finishing outside of a podium finish last year. The excitement of winning was equalled by my heartbreak for JP because he was so incredible throughout the competition and because he gave it his all, as well,” he said.

Surfing South Africa (SSA) will now determine the surfers who will qualify for the International Surfing Associaiton (ISA) World Para Surfing Championships in the USA.

“If I get selected for the champs in Huntington Beach, California, then I will up my training regiment and get myself mentally focused. I would love for another opportunity to represent my country at a World Champs, but for now, I will play it by ear and hope for the best,” he said.

Williams also thanked his sponsor, Elton-Lee Ireland, for his support throughout his journey.

In all, the SA Para Surfing Championships included 11 categories, namely seven Physical Para Surfing Classes, two Visual Sport Classes and two all-inclusive Stand and Prone categories.

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