Bethany Hamilton

Bethany Hamilton: biography

Bethany Hamilton is an American professional surfer who rose to fame after surviving a shark attack at the age of 13 and continuing to surf. She has since become a motivational speaker and author, sharing her story of determination and resilience.

Childhood and youth

Bethany Hamilton was born in Hawaii on February 8, 1990 and grew up in a surfing family. She began surfing at a young age and quickly developed a passion for the sport. By the age of 13, she was already considered a talented surfer and was competing in local and national events.

Surfing career

Bethany Hamilton's surfing career has been marked by her incredible determination and resilience. Despite losing her left arm in a shark attack in 2003, she returned to surfing just one month later and continued to compete at a high level. She has since become a professional surfer and has won numerous awards and competitions, including first place at the National Scholastic Surfing Association Championships. In 2007, she qualified for the World Surf League and has since established herself as a top competitor on the world stage. Bethany's inspiring story and impressive surfing skills have made her a role model for young surfers and a symbol of hope for people facing adversity.

Writing career

Bethany has written several books, including her memoir "Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to Get Back on the Board". In this book, Hamilton shares her inspiring story of determination and resilience, as she recounts how she recovered from the attack and went on to become a professional surfer. She has also written children's books that promote the message of courage, perseverance and faith. Hamilton continues to surf and inspire people with her positive attitude, determination and love for the sport.

Personal life

Bethany Hamilton is married to Adam Dirks, a filmmaker and former Christian youth minister, whom she met in 2008. The couple got married in 2013 and have two children together. Hamilton is a devout Christian and credits her faith for helping her through difficult times, including her shark attack and other challenges she has faced in her life.

She is also an avid philanthropist and supports various causes such as providing education and clean water to communities in need. In addition to her surfing career and writing, Hamilton is also a public speaker and encourages others to overcome obstacles and pursue their passions. She is widely recognized for her strength, determination, and inspiring story, and continues to be a role model for many.

Books

• Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to Get Back on the Board (2004)
• Body & Soul: A Girl's Guide to a Fit, Fun, and Fabulous Life (2005)
• Devotions for the Soul Surfer (2007)
• Rise Above: A Surfer's Journey of Resilience, Passion, and Hope (2020)
• The Young Soul Surfer (2021)
• Brave Enough (2021)
• Soul Surfer Devotions for Kids (2021)