“Could Have Been in Those Gangs” : 23-Year-Old Overcame Taboos by Surfing ‘Every Single Day’ Under Difficult Circumstances

Sometimes, surfers’ struggles can be even crueler than the rough waves. This is exactly what happened to a surfing enthusiast named Joshe Faulkner. Born in South Africa, Faulkner lived near Jeffreys Bay, one of the top three spots for surfers everywhere. But riddled with poverty and crime, Faulkner could’ve easily fallen under the wrong influence. However, he made a decision that changed his life forever. 

Joshe Faulkner’s lesser-known admissions about his struggles

“Growing up, surfing saved my life”, Faulkner admitted. Faulkner survived poverty and steered clear of criminal gangs inhabiting the area. He stated, “ I could have been in those gangs so easily.” Faulkner spoke about how, many people were skeptical when he became a surfer. “Everyone said I wouldn’t make it. They all said I would be like my father, one of the biggest gangsters who went to prison when I was five months old.”, he narrated. However, Faulkner proved his critics wrong by not giving up. “I had to surf every single day”, he remarked.

Faulkner related how surfing gave him clarity and the water made him feel safe. Soon, his efforts paid off and in 2015, when he secured the first position in the SA Under 20 Championship. Not only this, but a short film titled ‘Everything To Me’ was inspired by his true story. Evidently, surfing had a huge impact on how Faulkner’s life unfolded.

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However, Faulkner is not the only one who found safety in the water. Another amazing surfer, Matt Formston who crested waves that were 440 meters tall spoke of how he found the ocean safe. As a para surfer, his journey was phenomenal and proved that nothing was impossible. 

A glimpse of Matt Formston’s amazing surfing journey 

Despite not having good eyesight, Formston never gave up surfing. At the age of 44, Formston continued surfing, for his love of the waves. The 44-year-old surfer, suffers from Muscular Dystrophy which affects his vision. The Australian surfer, now ranked as one of the best para-surfers, went on to participate in the ISA World Championship at Pismo Beach. 

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Faulkner and Formston’s stories show that everything is possible if one follows their dreams with passion. As fans, we hope to know more about both Faulkner and Formston’s surfing journey. Tell us if you faced and overcame similar challenges in your life. Let us know in the comments!