39 Facts About Bethany Hamilton

Born and raised in Hawaii

Bethany Hamilton was born on February 8, 1990, in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii. She grew up with a deep passion for the ocean and surfing.

Surfed from a young age

Bethany started surfing when she was only five years old. Her love for the sport grew rapidly, and she displayed immense talent and dedication from an early age.

Raised in a surfing family

Bethany’s parents, Tom and Cheri Hamilton, were both avid surfers. They instilled a love for the ocean in their children and supported Bethany’s passion for surfing.

Inspired by her older brothers

Bethany’s older brothers, Noah and Tim, played a significant role in her surfing journey. They encouraged and pushed her to excel in the sport, sparking her competitive spirit.

Experienced a life-changing event at 13

In 2003, at the age of 13, Bethany’s life took an unexpected turn. While surfing, she was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark, which resulted in the loss of her left arm.

Miraculous survival

Despite the severity of the shark attack, Bethany miraculously survived, thanks to the quick response and bravery of fellow surfers who aided in getting her to safety.

Return to surfing

Within weeks of the attack, Bethany was back on her surfboard. Her determination to overcome adversity and pursue her passion for surfing was truly inspiring.

Professional surfing career

Bethany Hamilton turned pro at the age of 17 and has competed in numerous national and international surfing competitions, showcasing her incredible skill and tenacity.

The Soul Surfer

Bethany’s story gained widespread attention when it was adapted into a feature film titled “Soul Surfer” in The movie highlighted her indomitable spirit and unwavering faith.

Dedicated philanthropist

Bethany is actively involved in several charitable initiatives and organizations. She uses her platform to empower and support those facing adversity, particularly amputees and young girls.

Inspirational speaker

Bethany travels across the globe, sharing her story and inspiring audiences with her message of hope, courage, and resilience. Her motivational speeches leave a lasting impact on individuals of all ages.

Best-selling author

Bethany has written several books, including her autobiography “Soul Surfer,” which became a New York Times bestseller. Her books offer a glimpse into her life and lessons she has learned along the way.

Married to Adam Dirks

In August 2013, Bethany married Adam Dirks, a youth minister, and they have since built a beautiful life together, embracing their shared values of faith and adventure.

Motherhood

Bethany and Adam are proud parents to two sons, Tobias and Wesley. Motherhood has brought a new dimension of joy and fulfillment to Bethany’s life.

Ambassadors for positivity

Bethany and Adam strive to be positive influences in the world. They use their platform to spread messages of love, acceptance, and perseverance.

Active social media presence

Bethany maintains a strong presence on social media platforms, connecting with her fans and sharing updates about her surfing adventures, family life, and inspirational insights.

Endorsement deals

As a prominent athlete and influencer, Bethany has secured numerous endorsement deals with brands that align with her values and mission, further expanding her reach and impact.

A role model for amputees

Bethany serves as a beacon of hope for amputees around the world, proving that physical limitations do not define one’s ability to achieve their dreams.

Surfer Hall of Fame inductee

In 2021, Bethany was inducted into the Surfer Hall of Fame, honoring her unparalleled contributions to the sport and her extraordinary resilience.

Philosopher at heart

Bethany often shares insightful quotes and reflections on life, resilience, and the power of positivity, showcasing her depth of wisdom and inspiring others to find beauty in adversity.

Resides in Hawaii

Bethany and her family continue to live in their beloved home state of Hawaii, where they enjoy the island life and the close-knit community that supports them.

The Bethany Hamilton Foundation

Bethany founded the Bethany Hamilton Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting shark attack survivors and those affected by limb loss.

Philanthropic initiatives

Through her foundation, Bethany has initiated numerous philanthropic projects, including outreach programs, adaptive surfing clinics, and scholarships for aspiring young surfers.

Global impact

Bethany’s story has inspired individuals worldwide and continues to have a profound impact on people facing adversity in all corners of the globe.

Mentoring youth

Bethany takes an active role in mentoring young girls and encouraging them to pursue their dreams fearlessly, just as she did despite the obstacles she encountered.

Overcoming fear

Bethany’s journey serves as a reminder to all that fear should not hold us back from pursuing our passions. She fearlessly charges into waves, embracing the unknown with unwavering courage.

Positive mindset

A strong proponent of the power of positive thinking, Bethany embraces challenges with a mindset focused on growth, gratitude, and the belief that anything is possible.

Empowering young girls

Bethany’s story resonates deeply with young girls, who find inspiration in her unwavering determination, strength, and ability to overcome the odds.

Resilience in the face of adversity

Bethany’s resilience and ability to turn setbacks into opportunities is a testament to the human spirit’s indomitable nature and the remarkable strength that lies within us all.

Positive ambassador for the sport

Bethany’s positive attitude and genuine love for surfing have made her a powerful ambassador for the sport, inspiring aspiring surfers to embrace the joy and freedom of riding the waves.

A symbol of hope

From her unwavering faith to her remarkable achievements, Bethany symbolizes hope for those facing challenges, showing that with determination, anything is possible.

Respected by her peers

Bethany’s resilience and accomplishments have earned her the respect and admiration of her fellow surfers, who recognize her as a true pioneer in the sport.

Unforgettable impact on pop culture

Through her story and the “Soul Surfer” movie, Bethany has left an indelible mark on pop culture, inspiring countless individuals to persevere in the face of adversity.

Strong dedication to fitness

Bethany espouses the importance of leading a healthy and active lifestyle, prioritizing fitness to maintain her strength and agility as a professional surfer.

Wetsuit fashion line

Bethany has collaborated with various brands to create stylish and functional wetsuits, offering surfers both protection and style while riding the waves.

Embracing motherhood

Bethany gracefully balances her professional surfing career with the joys and challenges of being a loving mother, showcasing her ability to navigate multiple roles with grace and determination.

A recipient of numerous awards

Bethany’s incredible journey has been recognized with various awards, including the Female Surfer of the Year and the ESPY Award for Best Comeback Athlete.

Trailblazer for female surfers

Bethany’s trailblazing spirit has paved the way for future generations of female surfers, inspiring them to break barriers and pursue their dreams in the male-dominated sport.

A positive force for change

Bethany Hamilton continues to inspire, uplift, and empower individuals worldwide, reminding us all that when faced with adversity, courage, resilience, and a positive attitude can help us conquer any challenge that comes our way.

Conclusion

Bethany Hamilton is a remarkable individual who has inspired millions with her incredible resilience and determination. Despite her tragic encounter with a shark that led to the loss of her arm, Bethany did not let it define her. Instead, she embraced her passion for surfing and went on to become a professional athlete.

Through her inspiring journey, Bethany has taught us the importance of positivity, courage, and never giving up on our dreams. Her story resonates with people all around the world, showing that with unwavering determination, nothing is impossible.

Bethany’s strong faith and unwavering spirit have made her a role model for many, and her accomplishments continue to inspire and motivate people of all ages and backgrounds. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to overcome and achieve great things.

Bethany Hamilton is not just a surfing legend; she is a symbol of resilience and strength, proving that no obstacle is too great to overcome. Her impact goes beyond the world of sports, as she continues to inspire individuals to chase their dreams and live life to the fullest.

FAQs

Q: How did Bethany Hamilton lose her arm?

A: Bethany lost her arm in a shark attack while she was surfing in Hawaii when she was just 13 years old.

Q: How did Bethany Hamilton continue to surf after losing her arm?

A: Despite losing her arm, Bethany was determined to continue pursuing her passion for surfing. She adapted to surfing with just one arm by using a custom-made board and developing her own unique style of paddling and maneuvering in the water.

Q: What achievements has Bethany Hamilton accomplished in her surfing career?

A: Bethany has achieved remarkable success in her surfing career. She has won numerous competitions, including the NSSA National Championships, and has been ranked among the top female surfers globally.

Q: Is Bethany Hamilton involved in any charitable work?

A: Yes, Bethany is actively involved in various charitable endeavors. She founded the Friends of Bethany Hamilton foundation, which supports shark attack survivors and amputees. She also serves as an inspirational speaker, sharing her story and motivating others to overcome adversity.

Q: Has Bethany Hamilton written any books?

A: Yes, Bethany has authored several books, including her autobiography “Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to Get Back on the Board.” She has also co-authored children’s books and released a documentary about her life.