James' Journey for Development Surfing

Help an overweight, mid 40’s father of 2, give under-privileged kids a shot at not just surfing, but at careers too.  

I know what you're thinking. Yet another lycra-clad wanker looking for a handout. You would not be entirely wrong on several elements of that description, but hear me out. I want you to help me, help others who really need it.

My name is James Ord, I am 45 years old, I live in Hout Bay with my wife and kids and I run a construction company. About 8 years ago I fell out of a roof space and herniated two discs in my back. I had a choice - have an operation where the doctors would cut me open from the front, put all my guts on a table and fuse the discs OR the harder route which was to fix it the right way, through rehab, exercise and therapy. It did not happen overnight. After many years of trying to get fit I was seriously out of shape and in pain, weighing over 100kg, I could not play with my kids and my back was sore. I decided then and there to change my way of life. TO do so I needed a proper challenge to test myself both physically and me...