A surf-support group surpassed their fundraising target and collected more than R100 000 at their 100 Wave Challenge at Strandfontein on Saturday morning 3 May.
Up to 50 boys and girls took to the waves in the non-profit 9Miles Project‘s challenge, said spokesperson Margo Carelse.
“Surfers, supporters and volunteers came together for this community event, in which participants took on the challenge of catching 100 waves each in a single day to raise funds for vulnerable youth who are empowered through surf therapy, mentorship and education programmes. The energy was palpable, and the stoke unmatched as surfers took on the waves.”
9Miles Project’s 100 Wave challenge raised over R170 000 in funds which will go towards their education programmes and surf workshops. Photos: supplied. 
Up to 50 young boys and girls took to the waves in the non-profit 9Miles Project’s 100 Wave Challenge held at Strandfontein on Saturday morning 3 May. 
The young surfers also enjoyed part in sandcastle competitions, beach volleyball, kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding and sailing in the tidal pool.
9Miles was founded in Cape Town in 2013 by Nigel Savel and his wife Sher’Neil. It provides safe spaces and structured after-school programmes for impoverished and vulnerable children from marginalised coastal communities, according to its website.
The initial fundraising goal for its team was R100 000, which was exceeded significantly, with tallied-up earnings of more than R170 000. The proceeds will go towards the non-profit’s education programmes and surf workshops.
“We believe in building communities because families are the foundation of strong, thriving societies,” said Savel. “And how do you build communities? Through recreation! That’s why we offer this component, to strengthen the family unit and, in turn, create strong communities.”
At the 100 Wave Challenge a surf group known as “The Locals”, from Muizenberg, became the first team to complete their 100 waves successfully, Carelse related.
“Many of the participants were beginners, supported by dedicated local surf coaches and later joined by the incredible team from Nexgen Surf School, ensuring every surfer had the guidance and encouragement needed to conquer the challenge.”
Gabriel Fisher was named the youngest solo surfer to complete his 100 waves on the day.
“Faieq Samodien, one of 9Miles Project’s youngest students, exceeded all expectations,” said Carelse, “and raised the highest amount as a solo surfer, surpassing his goal.
“His unwavering passion and dedication to giving back to the organisation that shaped his journey embodied the true meaning of the event.”
The young ones could also enjoy various activities – sandcastle competition, beach volleyball, kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding and sailing in the tidal pool, among other amphibious activities.
“We are so grateful for the generosity of participants, volunteers, donors and partners, with the event exceeding expectations and raising more than R100 000 to support 9Miles Project’s ongoing mission to uplift at-risk youth and marginalised communities.”
The 9Miles Project hopes to host the 100 Wave Challenge next year too.
