CAPE TOWN – A group of talented young surfers showcased their skills at Muizenberg Beach on Friday 29 May, taking part in a surf competition hosted by Surfpop, a local non-profit organisation (NPO).

The event brought together beginner and advanced, primary school surfers from communities including Masiphumelele, Ocean View and Khayelitsha.

Star achievers

Competitors were allowed to use both longboards and shortboards as they tested their abilities in small but challenging 6 inch to 1ft waves.

Surfpop is a registered South African NPO that empowers at-risk youth through a combination of surfing, education support, life coaching and nutritional assistance.

The programme aims to create opportunities for young people from disadvantaged communities while building confidence, discipline and resilience through sport.

After an exciting day in the water, Sauud Claassen claimed first place, followed by Bukho Madolo in second position.

Prizes

The competition was designed to give young surfers an opportunity to gain experience in a supportive environment while developing their surfing skills.

All surfers received goodie bags for taking part, which included scarves, a surf magazine, a beanie, a R100 Tiger’s Milk voucher, a party pack containing sweets and chips, a water bottle and a keyholder.

The top three finishers were also awarded medals in recognition of their achievements.

People’s Post spoke with a pair of talented surfers, Theodora Manzvire and Luthemba Munuza, to hear how they fell in love with braving the waves on the beach.

Theodora says she first joined this year after they handed forms out at her school notifying the learners of the surf programme.

“We were told that if we were struggling with subjects like maths, English or natural sciences and technology, we could join Surfpop and they would help us with our homework and other schoolwork,” she recalled.

Surfing journey

She says she found the surf competition “more fun” than she expected.

“The waves were much stronger this time but I would like to improve my paddling and my timing when standing up on the board,” she added.

Theodora says she enjoys learning and training at Surfpop.

“It is fun. Everyone is friendly, including the coaches, and I enjoy being part of the programme,” she said.

Luthemba describes himself as a longboarder and lives in Masiphumelele.

He is a Grade 6 learner at Ukhanyo Primary School.

“I started surfing in 2020. What inspired me about Surfpop was that they help children who are struggling at school while also teaching them how to surf,” he said.

He says the waves were quite massive and intimidating but enjoyed the surf.

“When I first went into the water, the waves looked big and I was scared. But I managed to catch my first wave and it felt really good. The best part was that the coach explained what I could learn from my mistakes and how I could improve. That helped me a lot,” he said.

According to Surfpop, the event formed part of the organisation’s ongoing efforts to encourage youth development through surfing and provide positive recreational opportunities for children living in vulnerable communities.

For many participants, the event was not only a chance to compete, but also an opportunity to build confidence, make new friends and celebrate their progress in the sport.

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