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James Completes Sponssred Surthathon

James Bastin raises money for The Wave Project in Croyde

James Bastin’s Surfathon Success: Raising £12,000 for The Wave Project and Mastering His Surfing Skills
 
On May 30, 2025, Croyde Beach in North Devon hosted The Wave Project’s first 12-hour Inclusive Sponsored Surfathon. James Bastin, a dedicated surfer, played a key role in raising £12,000 for the charity’s Adaptive Surfing programmes. Over the past seven years, James has transformed from a cautious beginner to a confident surfer, now able to stand on his board and perform a signature jump that defines his style.
 
A Day of Waves and Giving Back
 
The Surfathon ran from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., uniting adaptive and non-disabled surfers to raise funds for The Wave Project, a UK charity focused on surf therapy. Led by Inclusive Lead Ian Bennett, the event saw surfers like James tackle Croyde’s waves for 12 hours straight. Supported by over 30 volunteers and instructors, the Surfathon raised £12,000 to expand adaptive surfing opportunities across hubs in Croyde, Watergate Bay, Scarborough, and Sandown. The event highlighted the joy of inclusive surfing and the importance of making the ocean accessible to all.
James stood out as a passionate participant. He surfed alongside others, including adaptive surfers like Florence, whose mother Hazel Ackroyd praised The Wave Project for its life-changing impact. The funds will support equipment, training, and sessions to help more people with physical disabilities experience surfing’s benefits.
 
James’s Seven-Year Surfing Journey
 
James’s Surfathon effort is part of his remarkable journey with The Wave Project. At age 10, he joined the charity’s adaptive surf sessions in Croyde, feeling nervous about the ocean. With guidance from mentors like Ian Bennett, the 2024 BBC South West Unsung Hero award winner, James built confidence step by step. Over seven years, James progressed from paddling to kneeling, then standing, a major milestone. Through regular sessions, he gained strength, resilience, and a love for the sea. His signature jump, where he pops off the board mid-ride and lands with a grin, has become a crowd favourite at Croyde Beach. It’s a move that captures his growth and joy.
 
The Wave Project’s Impact
 
The Wave Project provides free surf therapy to young people referred by the NHS, social services, and mental health organisations. Since launching its Adaptive Surf Hub in Croyde in 2021, the charity has used adaptive boards and bespoke wetsuits to make surfing accessible. The Surfathon’s £12,000 will fund equipment, volunteer training, and sessions, expanding these opportunities.
The event highlighted the charity’s mission, with participants like Freddy and Zoe, who travelled from Gloucester to surf, showing its reach. Volunteers from Surf South West, a partner since 2014, ensured everyone could participate safely.

A Community Effort
 
Spectators at Croyde Beach cheered as James and others surfed, creating a festive atmosphere. The Surfathon celebrated community and inclusivity, with every wave ridden supporting The Wave Project’s goal of breaking down barriers to surfing. James’s journey, from a nervous beginner to a surfer landing his signature jump, inspired donations and showcased the charity’s impact.
Looking Ahead
 
As the Surfathon ended with high-fives and smiles, the £12,000 raised set the stage for more young people to discover surfing. James’s seven-year transformation reflects the power of The Wave Project’s work. His commitment to the Surfathon and his signature jump embody the charity’s mission to make the ocean a place of joy for all.
To support The Wave Project, visit their JustGiving page or website to donate.
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