- Camps Bay’s Ben Esterhuyse won the u-14 boys category at the South African Junior Surfing Championships in Jeffreys Bay.
- Despite tough competition and challenging ocean conditions, Esterhuyse claimed his second consecutive title.
- He attributes his success to his passion for surfing, rigorous training, and support from family and sponsors.
Camps Bay High School learner Ben Esterhuyse has once again proven his dominance in South African junior surfing.
The Grade 8 learner dominated the u-14 category at the Sea Harvest South African Junior Championships.
The 28th edition of the event presented by SMTH Shapes and supported by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and Ocean Freedom, took place at Lower Point in Jeffreys Bay from Wednesday 25 September with the finals on Sunday 29 September.
READ | Cape Town surfer Paul Sampson competes on the world stage after homeless childhood
Despite a fierce attack from his competitors, Esterhuyse owned the u-14 Boys final and went back-to-back to be crowned the u-14 Boys Champion for the second year in a row.
The championship saw 180 girls and boys from eight districts across the country battling it out.
In a highly competitive final, the 14-year-old faced strong opposition but delivered a great performance under pressure to claim victory.
Speaking to People’s Post, the teen said his passion for the open waters started from the age of six.
Challenging
“I love surfing because it frees my mind, and it is something that I’ve loved since I was younger. When I was about 10 years old, I started surfing a lot more and realised I was actually good at it. I started doing some contests and I started winning. Then I realised I can actually do this.”
Esterhuyse explained that they battled challenging conditions on the first day with small and light onshore waves.
However, day two delivered massive waves with perfect offshore conditions, allowing the surfers to showcase their full potential.
“The sea conditions were good and there were good waves,” said Esterhuyse.
According to Esterhuyse, being water smart is crucial.
“An important thing is having good knowledge of the ocean otherwise you won’t know what weather is good or bad. You need to be in tune with the ocean and know what’s going on.”
He said while his goal was to be successful, he did not imagine he would be victorious again.
“I wanted to keep this streak going, so I worked hard. After the buzzer went off and I was announced the u-14 champ, it was an amazing feeling. All my competitors were really good. But I did go into the contest hoping I would win it. I am extremely happy.”
READ | Big Bay’s Jake Hutton bagsthree world titles at lifesaving championships
He explained that extensive training and preparation goes into each competition.
“I go to the gym with a professional surfer and do lots of training with my coach.”
The teen already has his sights set on next year.
“I will be going to u-16 next year. And my goal for that is to make the national team.”
Camps Bay High School’s Head of Sport Busi Ngcwama praised the learner for his achievement.
“Camps Bay High School has a strong surf legacy and Ben continues that legacy of champions. We are incredibly proud of his commitment, determination, and consistent excellence in the sport.”
Friedrich Esterhuyse said he is proud of his son’s accomplishments.
“There were a lot of expectations for Ben throughout the event and how he handled that pressure in the finals was especially good to see.
“The joy of the achievement on his face was amazing to see at the end of the finals. It was an emotional roller coaster that ended in a great result.”
READ | Big Bay’s Jake Hutton bagsthree world titles at lifesaving championships
The proud father explained that his son puts in much effort to perfect his craft.
“Ben enjoys playing sport and apart from surfing, loves playing soccer for Camps Bay High. Being competitive in nature, he is very determined and focused and trains hard to achieve his goals.”
The teen expressed his gratitude to everyone who supported him.
“I would like to thank all my sponsors, supporters and my parents. My parents are the main people who help me get through this.”
