Bethany Hamilton Is A Wildcard We Like

After dropping the world’s best women at Cloudbreak last year into a semifinal finish, the most inspiring mom ever has received a wildcard into the 2017 Outerknown Fiji Pro. That’s right, Beth Hamilton is back! 

Last year Beth blitzed her way into the semifinals. Surfing with authority, the Hawaiian could have won the whole thing outright if a few more waves had rolled in her way. Fans around the world ooo’ed and ahh’ed at her accomplishment, collectively scratching their heads, wondering, “How the hell does she do that?” 

“Anyone who isn’t inspired by Bethany Hamilton and her physical attributes after losing her arm to a tiger shark in Kauai some years ago should check their pulse,” scribbled Kelly Slater after watching Beth roll. 

“I think everyone should have a full surf with one arm strapped to their side and attempt not only to paddle out but put themselves in position at heavy spots like Pipe, Jaws, and Cloudbreak, and try to get up on a shortboard. I’m scared to try it myself and ridiculously impressed with her talents,” continued Kelly.

Given the impression she had on him last year, it’s little wonder that when Outerknown took over the title sponsorship they would leverage their influence to get her in the comp.

“I hope to see her in more events this year and hopefully she can requalify on just the strength of a few good results as a wildcard this year on tour,” said Slater last year.

But wait, it gets better. This year, Beth gets Tyler Wright in Round One, who’s fresh off a win in Rio. Tatiana Weston-Webb is also in the heat. The two have spent many a session together at home in the islands and are fast friends. Needless to say, Tyler’s not going to breezing through her opening heat. Unfortunately, we’re going to have to wait and see what happens as it’s looking relatively flat in Fiji for the next week.

“I feel like I’m surfing better than ever, so I can’t help but be excited,” said Beth in the WSL presser.

Neither can we, Beth. Neither can we.

On the men’s side, Yago Dora after his World Champion dropping run in Rio, has been awarded the wildcard for Fiji.