Blind Surfer Aims for Paralympics

In a groundbreaking achievement, blind surfer Formston has made history by becoming the first visually impaired athlete to successfully surf the notorious waves of Nazaré, Portugal. During his recent endeavor, he rode a record-breaking 51-foot wave, a feat now recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. Formston described the experience as surreal, noting the unique sound of the wave behind him, which he had never heard while surfing before. His innovative approach involved using an orienteering whistle, allowing his tow driver to guide him through the waves. Despite the thrill of the moment, Formston admitted to moments of doubt while navigating the powerful waters of Nazaré. He relied heavily on his tow driver’s cues to time his maneuvers correctly, highlighting the challenges faced by athletes with disabilities in extreme sports. Nevertheless, the experience has only fueled his passion for surfing, as he expresses a desire to tackle more big waves, including a potential trip to Shipsterns in Tasmania. Looking ahead, Formston is also advocating for the inclusion of para-surfing in the Paralympic Games. He argues that adding para-surfing would not incur additional costs or complexities, making it a feasible option for the event. With aspirations to compete in Brisbane, he dreams of finishing his career with a gold medal, supported by his eldest son as his spotter, marking a poignant personal milestone in his surfing journey.