Bethany Hamilton is one of the most inspiring figures in the world of surfing. She is known not only for her talent on the waves but also for her courage and determination after surviving a shark attack. Many people know about her comeback story, but fewer know how and when she began surfing. This article will take you through her early life, the start of her surfing journey, and how she became a professional surfer. Let’s dive into when Bethany Hamilton started surfing and how her early years shaped her career.
Who Is Bethany Hamilton?
Bethany Meilani Hamilton is an American professional surfer. She was born on February 8, 1990, in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii. She became famous after surviving a shark attack in 2003, in which she lost her left arm. Despite this, she returned to professional surfing just a few months later. Her story has inspired millions around the world, and she continues to compete and motivate others.
Hamilton has written books, starred in documentaries, and was portrayed in the 2011 film Soul Surfer. However, before all of that, she was a young girl growing up on an island where surfing was part of daily life.
Early Life in Hawaii
Bethany grew up in a surfing family. Her parents, Tom and Cheri Hamilton, were both surfers. They moved to Hawaii from California in the 1980s. The ocean was a big part of their lifestyle, and they passed that love down to their children. Bethany has two older brothers, Noah and Timothy, who also surfed. As a family, they spent many days on the beach.
Living in Kauai gave Bethany easy access to warm waters and consistent waves. It was the perfect place to fall in love with surfing.
Her parents noticed her interest and talent at a young age.
When Did Bethany Hamilton Start Surfing?
Bethany Hamilton began surfing at the age of 5. That’s when she first stood up on a surfboard. It wasn’t just a fun hobby — even at that young age, Bethany showed natural talent and determination.
By the time she was 7, she was entering small local competitions.
These early contests were important. They helped her develop her skills and gave her experience competing against others.
Her parents supported her dreams and helped her train consistently.
Bethany also began working with surf coaches and mentors, including some of Hawaii’s best young surfers. She trained before and after school and was fully dedicated to the sport from a young age.
Bethany’s First Surfboard
Like many young surfers, Bethany started on a foam board, which is safer for children. As she improved, she graduated to a fiberglass shortboard. Her first serious board was custom-made to fit her size and style. It became a treasured tool as she developed her abilities in the waves.
These early boards allowed her to learn how to paddle, turn, and catch waves correctly. Her parents would often videotape her so she could study her movements and improve.
Training and Early Competitions
Bethany began training seriously by the time she was 8 years old. She entered National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) events, which are highly respected in the U.S. surf scene. By age 9, she had already placed in multiple junior competitions.
At 10, she won her first major surf competition. This win marked the beginning of her rising reputation as one of the most promising young surfers in Hawaii.
Bethany trained almost every day. Her routine included:
- Surfing in the morning before school
- Practicing her turns and maneuvers
- Cross-training with swimming and bodyweight exercises
- Watching videos of professional surfers
This strong foundation gave her the edge she needed as she moved up in the ranks.
Bethany Hamilton Before the Shark Attack
By age 13, Bethany had established herself as a competitive surfer. In 2003, just before the shark attack, she was ranked among the top amateur surfers in the NSSA.
She was winning local and regional competitions and attracting the attention of surf brands. She had sponsorships from Rip Curl and Tim Carroll Surfboards. Many believed she would go on to become a top professional surfer.
Her style was aggressive, yet graceful. Her wave-reading ability and powerful bottom turns stood out even among older surfers. Bethany had a bright future ahead, and her dream was to become a world champion.
The Shark Attack and Her Remarkable Comeback
On October 31, 2003, when she was 13, Bethany was surfing at Tunnels Beach in Kauai. While lying on her board, a 14-foot tiger shark attacked her. The shark bit off her left arm just below the shoulder.
Despite losing over 60% of her blood, Bethany survived. Her calmness and bravery helped her get back to shore. She was rushed to the hospital and underwent surgery.
Many thought her surfing career was over. But just one month later, she was back in the water. And in less than three months, she entered a surf competition again. Her board had been modified so she could paddle and pop up using just one arm.
Bethany’s Early
Start Helped Her Return
Because she started surfing so young, Bethany had strong muscle memory and technique. These skills helped her adapt quickly after the attack. Her balance, timing, and wave sense were already deeply developed.
She also had strong support from her family, coaches, and sponsors. Their encouragement, combined with her deep love for surfing, pushed her forward. Bethany once said, “I don’t need easy. I just need possible.” That mindset helped her continue her journey.
Bethany’s Surfing Achievements After the Attack
Bethany’s comeback is one of the greatest in sports history. Here are some of her key achievements after returning to surfing:
2005 NSSA National Champion: Less than two years after the attack, she won first place.
2007: Released her autobiography, Soul Surfer.
2011: The film Soul Surfer, based on her life, was released.
2016: Beat some of the top women surfers at the Fiji Women’s Pro, finishing third overall.
Ongoing: Participates in elite-level surf events and free surf sessions around the world.
Bethany Hamilton Today
Bethany continues to surf professionally. She is also a public speaker, author, and role model. She runs “Unstoppable Life,” a mentoring program that helps others overcome challenges. She shares her journey through books, documentaries, and interviews.
She is married and has children but still finds time to ride waves and train. Her story has inspired not only surfers but also people in all walks of life.
Conclusion
Bethany Hamilton began surfing at just 5 years old. She grew up in Hawaii, surrounded by waves and supported by a surfing family. Her early start helped her rise quickly through the ranks. By age 13, she was already a star in junior competitions.
When tragedy struck in 2003, her experience, courage, and love for surfing helped her overcome incredible odds. She didn’t just return to the sport — she excelled at it. Bethany’s story reminds us that with passion, support, and hard work, even the biggest challenges can be faced. Her journey began with a young girl catching waves in Kauai, and it continues to inspire the world today.