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Blind International Surfing Star Derek Rabelo Is Coming To SA

Derek Rabelo is coming to Adelaide on January 9th as an exclusive guest of the Royal Society of the Blind to share his amazing story of success.

Who doesn’t love an inspirational story with a summer tilt? Well “surf’s up” as blind surfer Derek Rabelo presents at two exciting and unique SA events this January!

He’s surfed with the world’s best and continues to amaze his peers and fans with his extraordinary talent, and now inspirational, international surfing superstar Derek Rabelo is coming to Adelaide, as a guest of the Royal Society for the Blind (RSB).

Born with congenital glaucoma and completely blind, this 25-year-old Brazilian is acknowledged as one of the most celebrated blind surfers on the planet, and one of the most inspiring sports people of his time.

“Now I just listen and ‘feel’ my way through the surf. I imagine thoroughly what the sea is. This thing feels to me like energy and blessings and happiness. The best feeling in the world.”

Surfing alongside superstars such as Kelly Slater and Mick Fanning, Derek has conquered some of the biggest waves in the world including the famous Pipeline in Hawaii.

This multi-talented inspiration, who is now also a keen downhill skateboarder, will be visiting Adelaide in January to take part in two exciting events and Adelaide audiences have their first chance to meet him and hear about his amazing life journey.

Derek will be presenting his story at the Norwood Town Hall on Tuesday, January 9 and then sharing surfing tips on the Glenelg foreshore later that day.

According to RSB Executive Director, Robert Dempsey, Derek’s visit is a huge coup for SA and the organisation and it’s delighted to be hosting such a humble young man who has chronicled his challenges and successes in two documentaries – ‘Beyond Sight’ and ‘Walking on Water’.

“We’re thrilled to be hosting Derek who epitomises our attitude in everything we try to do with those who are blind or living with vision loss in our communities,” he says. “Goal setting, in particular, is so important for our community as they enter the NDIS system.

Through the NDIS process, you have an opportunity to set various goals whether it be vocational, employment, travel, family or sport.

National Australia Bank and Statewide Super are RSBs event partners in making Derek’s visit to SA possible, along with event supporters – Mayfair Hotel, NOVA 919, Glenelg Surf Life Saving Club, Surf Life Saving SA, Kids in Adelaide and Stand Tall-the Event.

So start off your New Year right and get ready to be inspired and motivated by the Fabulous Rabelo and his remarkable story!

‘Live your dream. Make your goals.’ – Norwood Town Hall, 9 January, 10:30 am – $15

Learn to Surf Like A Pro! – Glenelg Foreshore, 9 January, 2 pm – FREE (places are limited)

To book a ticket or register to attend click here or phone 1300 944 306.

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