Roxy Davis is a surfing legend. She’s competed since the age of 12 and represented South Africa in multiple disciplines. “Surfing’s changed my life in ways that are beyond comprehension,” Davis says. But the sport that’s second nature to her is something those with disabilities usually can’t even consider. So Davis is giving back by making it accessible to people who are physically and intellectually challenged.
“Adaptive surfing is not just teaching people with a disability how to surf,” Davis says. “It’s a form of therapy and medicine.” Together with her team of volunteers at the Roxy Davis Foundation, she hosts monthly clinics that empower people to head out into the water and catch a wave. Using modified boards, they can take to the ocean either sitting, lying on their stomach, or with a paddle. Having the chance to surf expands their horizons, and shows them how much they’re capable of. “It gives them the realisation that there is something that they can do,” Davis says. “It builds self-esteem, self-confidence.”
Since her initiative began this year, over 100 surfers have participated. People from the age of four to 77 are joining in, and sessions are also open to those struggling with their mental health. “I can see first-hand the impact we’re making in people’s lives,” Davis says. There’s a wave for everyone to surf.
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