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Who Is Bethany Hamilton?
Bethany Hamilton, born on February 8, 1990, in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii, is an American professional surfer known for her remarkable comeback after a life-altering shark attack. Starting competitive surfing at age 8, Hamilton showed early promise in the sport. However, her career took a shocking turn at age 13 when she lost her left arm in a shark attack. Despite this, she resumed surfing shortly afterward and went on to win a national title in 2005. Beyond surfing, Hamilton is a successful author, public speaker, and has appeared in documentary films and on popular reality TV programs, where she shares her inspiring story of resilience and determination.
Early Years and Surfing
Raised in a surfing family, Hamilton grew up alongside her older brothers, Noah and Tim, in Kauai. She began surfing at a young age and quickly stood out in the competitive scene. By age 9, she had earned her first sponsorship, and as part of the Hanalei Surf Co. team, she demonstrated her ability to compete against more seasoned surfers. In May 2003, Hamilton achieved a notable victory, winning her age group and the open division at Hawaii’s Local Motion/Ezekiel Surf Into Summer event. She followed this success by placing second in the open women’s division at the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) National Championships in San Clemente, California.
Shark Attack and Recovery
On October 31, 2003, Hamilton’s life changed dramatically when a 14-foot tiger shark attacked her while she was surfing at Tunnels Beach in Ha’ena with her best friend Alana Blanchard and her family. While lying on her surfboard, Hamilton suddenly felt a sharp pull on her left arm. The attack, which severed her arm just below the shoulder, resulted in significant blood loss, but quick action from Blanchard’s father, who applied a tourniquet, and prompt medical attention saved her life. Despite the trauma and loss of approximately 60% of her blood, Hamilton remained calm and determined to return to the ocean.
The attack drew widespread media attention, but Hamilton maintained a composed outlook, stating her intention to continue surfing. True to her word, she made a remarkable comeback and continued to thrive in the sport she loved.
Books and Publications
Bethany Hamilton’s determination to overcome adversity captured the public’s attention, especially after she resumed surfing just one month after the shark attack. In 2004, she published her autobiography Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to Get Back on the Board, which became a best seller. Her story of resilience and faith earned her recognition from organizations like MTV, ESPN, and the United States Sports Academy.
Hamilton went on to write several other books, including Devotions for the Soul Surfer (2006) and Body and Soul: A Girl’s Guide to a Fit, Fun, and Fabulous Life (2014), continuing to inspire readers with her journey and positive outlook.
Return to Competition
Despite the challenges posed by the loss of her arm, Hamilton quickly returned to competitive surfing. She won the Explorer Women’s Division at the 2005 NSSA National Championships and began competing professionally in 2007. That same year, she won the T & C Surf Women’s Pipeline event, proving her ability to thrive in the sport.
Documentary and Reality TV Appearances
Hamilton’s remarkable return to surfing was documented in Heart of a Soul Surfer (2007), a film that captured her journey after the shark attack. This documentary later inspired the 2011 feature film Soul Surfer, starring AnnaSophia Robb as Hamilton.
In 2014, Hamilton further showcased her competitive spirit by finishing in third place on season 25 of The Amazing Race. She also made guest appearances on shows like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and The Biggest Loser. Despite a busy schedule, she continued to perform at a high level, taking first place at the Surf n Sea Pipeline Women’s Pro event in March 2014.
‘Unstoppable’ and Continued Advocacy
In 2018, Hamilton’s life and career were again brought to the big screen in the documentary Unstoppable, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. The film chronicled her athletic achievements and her dedication to promoting a healthy, faith-based lifestyle. In line with her advocacy, she launched The Unstoppable Year, an online course designed to help people overcome personal obstacles and achieve their goals.
Personal Life
Hamilton married youth pastor Adam Dirks in August 2013 after they began dating the year prior. The couple welcomed their first son, Tobias, in June 2015, followed by their second son, Wesley, in March 2018. Their family grew again in February 2021 with the birth of their third son, Micah. Despite her roles as a wife and mother, Hamilton remains committed to her work, using her platform to inspire others around the world.