Two Somerset West sisters, Nina and Kayla Bone, are making a name for themselves in the local surfing community after impressive second and third-place finishes, respectively, at the recent Sea Harvest Cape Crown competition in Kommetjie.
The competition, held from Friday 5 to Sunday 7 September, showcased the skills of the two surfers from Beaumont Primary and Parel Vallei High School.
For Nina, a Grade 10 learner, the podium finish was a welcome breakthrough. “I was so happy to make the top three because I haven’t placed in a while,” she said. “It felt good to finally come second.”
The competition was also a chance to reconnect with friends from other provinces. “There’s always a great atmosphere at the competitions,” Nina added, though she noted the cold water as a significant challenge.
The sisters were introduced to surfing at a friend’s birthday party hosted at Son Surf School in Strand. With their father, Nick, a lifelong surfer, the sport quickly became a family passion.
While Nina now surfs with her friends, her father has taken on the role of coaching younger sister Kayla.
The family’s commitment is evident during competitions, where they provide a support system of cheers and encouragement.
For 12-year-old Kayla, a Grade 6 learner, the third-place finish came with a mix of emotions. “I was frustrated because I really wanted to come second,” she admitted, but quickly added, “I got over it, though, and will try again in the next competition.”
Both sisters have received coaching from Mik Thompson of Son Surf, whom they credit with boosting their confidence on the waves.
The siblings hope to train together more as Kayla grows more confident in bigger waves.
Both Nina and Kayla have already had a taste of success. Both placed third at the Grom Games. Last year, Nina finished fifth in the under-16 division at the SA Champs in Jeffreys Bay, representing the Cape Winelands Surfriders team. This year, Kayla will represent the same team in the under-12 division at the nationals from Monday 6 to Sunday 12 October.
For Nina, the journey is about her love for the sport. “I really enjoy surfing, so I will keep it up,” she said, expressing a wish for more local girls to surf with.
For Kayla, the goal is even bigger: “I’d like to be a professional surfer one day.”
Beyond the competition, the sisters value the lessons surfing provides. It has allowed them to travel and meet new, like-minded people. Most importantly, it has taught them about the sea, its wildlife and the importance of resilience.
As Nick puts it: “You can get knocked out time after time, but you keep trying and getting back out there.”
Nina is grateful for sponsors Orca wetsuits, Natural Energy and Von Boards who make sure she has the gear she needs.
The sport is also a way for the girls to spend more time in nature, a “huge bonus” for the entire family.
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