It’s almost that time of year again - the time to hit the beach! At Coastal Adaptive Sports, we’re passionate about surfing, so we offer adaptive surfing classes so that everyone can enjoy the feeling of catching a wave!
Our Wheel to Surf events are surf clinics that are designed for people who happen to have a disability. But how exactly does it work? Well, our adaptive surfing classes are run by trained volunteers who use specially modified surfboards that allow those who may not be able to use a standard surfboard to be able to get out on the water. Since every person is different, we have surfers who ride seated, standing, tandem, and prone.
If you’re nervous about the idea of trying out a Wheel to Surf clinic, don’t be! Our volunteers are friendly, caring, patient, and want to spread the love of surfing to all. This is a great opportunity for those who are new to surfing as well as those who want to get back in the water in a new way.
In fact, the Wheel to Surf events were started by Brock Johnson, who was an avid surfer for 23 years before getting into an accident that paralyzed 3/4 of his body. After some hard work and determination, he found a way to get back in the water and wanted to share his unique way of surfing with the rest of the community.
Brock started the Wheel to Surf events in 2013 after going to a similar event in North Carolina. He enjoyed the program so much that he partnered with Ocean Cure to bring surfing lessons to those with disabilities to the Grand Strand and other parts of the Carolinas. The first Wheel to Surf event only had about 17 participants - but that quickly changed as word spread about this fantastic event and pretty soon there were around 60 participants at each event. And it’s remained that way ever since.
When asked if people are scared to try adaptive surfing, Brock said that, while some people are slightly hesitant, most people feed off of his excitement and passion for the event. And once they’ve caught their first wave, they’re pretty much addicted and come back year after year.
Wheel to Surf offers surfing classes for people of all ages - ranging from the youngest participant who was only 20 months old, all the way to people in their 60s, though everyone is always welcome!
If you’re interested in going to one of the Wheel to Surf events, be sure to check out our Surfing page to find out more about event dates, how to sign up, how to volunteer, and to learn more about the Adaptive Surf Project.
Wanna get involved? You may also volunteer to help out with a Coastal Adaptive Sports event by clicking here.