Bethany Hamilton has proven determination and hard work can overcome even the biggest challenges.
The 26-year-old knocked the world’s number one female surfer, Tyler Wright, out of the Fiji Women’s Pro last month to finish third overall.
The mother-of-one, who lost her left arm following a shark attack at the age of 13, scored a wildcard entry for the competition and was incredibly humbled by the triumph.
“Beyond stoked to finish 3rd … as the wildcard! LOVED competing & looking forward to more adventures,” she tweeted after the event.
11-time world champion Kelly Slater also took to Instagram to praise the American athlete, suggesting everyone try surfing at the world’s toughest surf breaks.
“I’m scared to try it myself and ridiculously impressed with her talents,” he wrote.
The pro surfer was “stoked” to finish third place in the competition after scoring a wildcard entry.
The Hawaiian local was thrilled for the chance to return to the professional circuit, having welcomed her first son Tobais last year.
“I’ve been dreaming of surfing and competing there for years and I think the wave will suit my surfing!”
“Seeing all the swell headed to Fiji has me pumped up! I know I’ll have to surf strong and be heat smart to do well, I believe I can,” she said previously.
Bethany and her husband Adam welcomed their son Tobais last year.
Bethany’s inspirational story captured hearts worldwide when she returned to surfing just weeks after the near-fatal shark attack.
Not only has she inspired a Hollywood film titled Soul Surfer, the determined athlete is set to tell what she describes as the untold story about her career in an upcoming documentary.
The piece titled Surf Like A Girl will detail the challenges faced by Bethany as she learns to surf with one arm, as well as returning to the sport after giving birth.
Watch young Bethany Hamilton recall her shark attack below!
