At Shokogi Surf in Playa Venao, Panama, we believe that surfing is more than just a sport—it's a pathway to empowerment, inclusion, and connection with nature. This belief was vividly brought to life during our recent 10-day surf camp, where we had the honor of hosting two remarkable groups from Tel Aviv, Israel: Geula Surf Club and PosSEAble.
Geula Surf Club, founded with the mission of making surfing accessible to all, aligns perfectly with our ethos of spreading the joy of surfing. Their passion for the ocean and dedication to inclusivity brought incredible energy to the waves of Playa Venao.
PosSEAble, an association that fosters connections between individuals with and without disabilities through aquatic activities, enriched our camp with its inspiring members and commitment to accessibility. Witnessing their participants, some of whom have paraplegia, embrace the ocean enthusiastically was a profound experience for everyone involved.
Our camp included two daily surf lessons tailored to accommodate all skill levels and physical abilities, ensuring everyone had the chance to catch waves under the guidance of our experienced instructors. The surf sessions were complemented by video analysis, an essential tool for helping surfers recognize and adjust their techniques to enhance their performance in the water. Additionally, daily yoga sessions and nutritious meals provided a perfect balance, helping participants center themselves, improve their surfing through enhanced flexibility and mindfulness, and maintain energy throughout the day.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the camp was the opportunity to support and witness paraplegic surfers overcoming the waves. Surfing provides a unique sense of freedom and accomplishment, and we believe it's essential to make this experience accessible to everyone, regardless of physical limitations. The joy and smiles of these surfers as they rode the waves were not only inspiring but a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.
As the camp drew to a close, it was evident that the connections forged in the waves were not ephemeral. They were bonds that would endure, shaping the lives of the participants and inspiring us all to strive for a more inclusive and connected world, both in and out of the water.
At Shokogi, we are more than just a surf shop; we are a community that believes in the power of the ocean to bring people together. We are grateful to Geula Surf Club and PosSEAble for joining us in this incredible journey and look forward to many more waves together.
We hope this recap inspires others to join us in the water, whether you're a seasoned surfer or trying it for the first time. Check out our surf programs here or follow us on Instagram for updates and inspiring stories.
