Liv Stone, a three-time world champion para-surfer, was shocked to learn earlier this year that para-surfing would not be included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This news was disappointing not only for Stone but for many athletes in the para-surfing community who had been advocating for the sport’s inclusion in the Olympics for over five years. Despite the setback, advocates like Stone and five-time para-surfing world champion Victoria Feige are not giving up on their dream of seeing para-surfing in the Paralympics.
The decision to exclude para-surfing from the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles was based on factors such as global and domestic popularity, universality at major international events, and cost and complexity within the venue master plan. However, advocates like Feige are determined to showcase the value of para-surfing in terms of corporate sponsorship, viewership, and overall appeal to justify its inclusion in future Games.
One of the proposed solutions to address cost and logistical challenges is the use of wave pools for competition, which could help ensure water safety and reduce infrastructure concerns. Additionally, ideas like corporate sponsorships and crowd-funding have been suggested to help cover the higher costs associated with para-surfing events. An online petition started in June received over 19,000 signatures in support of including para-surfing in the Paralympics, showing the widespread interest and backing for the sport.
The International Surfing Association, recognized by the International Olympic Committee, has been a strong advocate for para-surfing’s inclusion in the Games and has been hosting the ISA World Para (Adaptive) Surfing Championship since 2015. ISA president Fernando Aguerre emphasized the determination of para-surfers to overcome challenges and continue developing the sport worldwide.
Feige remains optimistic about the future of para-surfing in the Paralympics, highlighting the determination and creativity of para-surfers to find solutions to obstacles. With ongoing advocacy efforts and support from the surfing community, para-surfing advocates are hopeful that their sport will eventually be included in the Paralympics, giving athletes like Liv Stone the opportunity to showcase their skills on the world stage.
