Luke Thompson, a young surfer from Durban, made waves by winning the Ballito Pro, a big contest in South Africa that’s part of the global World Surf League Challenger Series. His win is a proud moment, showing that South Africa’s surfing is growing stronger and producing new champions. Against wild ocean winds and fierce competitors, Luke’s hard work and skill helped him rise to the top. This victory is not just his own—it’s a sign of hope and a bright future for South African surfing on the world stage.
Paul ‘Chow’ Sampson, a 24yearold surfer from Cape Town, has overcome adversity and poverty to become South Africa’s top surfer and participate in the 2024 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series. Sampson honed his surfboarding skills on Muizenberg Beach, where he found peace and developed his signature flamboyant style. Despite financial hurdles associated with professional surfing, Sampson launched a BackABuddy sponsorship page to generate support for his global tour participation. Sampson’s journey reflects the transformative power of sports and the strength of the human spirit, inspiring the surfing community in South Africa and beyond.