Bethany Hamilton

Bethany Hamilton was born on February 8, 1990. She was born in the U.S. state of Hawaii. When she was 5 years old she decided to practice surfing. When Bethany was 8 years old her parents entered her in her first competition. She won so she decided to become a surfer.

By the time Bethany was 13 years old, she was a respected surfer. On October 31 2003 (Halloween day) Bethany was surfing off the coast of Hawaii when she was attacked by a tiger shark. She managed to swim back to shore but not before the shark ripped of her left arm. Her left arm was amputated. Many people thought that Bethany would never surf again.

One month later she was back in the water trying to surf again. Bethany tried her best to relearn surfing because her balance was different. In January she started again in the surfing competition. She wanted to be treated just like everyone else. She placed fifth in the open women’s division and she won the 2004 award for best comeback athlete.

Even though she lost her arm, she was still able to continue following her dream. A lot of people are inspired by her example and she gives hope to the people in the same situation. Bethany used her celebrity to inspire others and help charitable causes. She is independent, very courageous, she is creative and shows how to live with a handicap. I don’t know if I’m already courageous.

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