South African surfers Jordy Smith and Sarah Baum have secured their spots to represent their country at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. After their remarkable performance at the 2023 ISA World Surfing Games held in El Salvador, Smith and Baum earned their qualifications alongside other top surfers from Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania.
Jordy Smith: The Highest-Ranked Male Surfer from Africa
Jordy Smith, a 35-year-old surfer born in Durban, clinched his Olympic qualification as the highest-ranked male surfer from Africa. He had previously qualified for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games but had to withdraw due to injury. Missing the Tokyo Games motivated him to work harder and secure his spot for Paris 2024. Smith expressed his excitement about surfing becoming part of the Olympics, noting that it has inspired young surfers worldwide.
Sarah Baum: A Debut on the Prestigious Athletic Stage
Sarah Baum, a 29-year-old surfer from KwaZulu-Natal, has made her mark by residing in New South Wales, Australia. Baum earned her Olympic qualification by advancing to the women’s repechage Round 5 at the 2013 ISA World Surfing Games. The Paris 2024 Olympics will be Baum’s debut on the prestigious athletic stage, following in the footsteps of fellow South African surfer Bianca Buitendag, who won a silver medal at Tokyo 2020 before retiring from professional surfing.
Baum and Buitendag grew up surfing together, often competing neck and neck at various events. While their paths diverged, Baum is ready to take on the Olympic challenge and represent her country on the world stage.
The Power of Perseverance and Hard Work
Jordy Smith and Sarah Baum have shown immense dedication to their sport, inspiring a new generation of South African surfers. Their journeys testify to the power of perseverance, hard work, and the pursuit of greatness. As the surfing community continues to grow and evolve, athletes like Smith and Baum push the boundaries of the sport and inspire others to chase their dreams.
The Road to Paris 2024
As they prepare for the Paris 2024 Olympics, Smith and Baum will continue to hone their skills and make their mark in surfing. By representing South Africa on the global stage, they will showcase their incredible talents and contribute to the growth and recognition of surfing as a prominent Olympic sport.
