Bethany Hamilton is a lot of things: a shark attack survivor, an inspirational and groundbreaking surfer, an author, a motivational speaker, a mother…
But if you asked her, she’d probably say the latter is one of her greatest achievements in life. She and her husband, Adam Dirks, have already welcomed three children into the world, and they’re soon expecting a fourth. And Bethany isn’t letting the baby bump get in the way of her workout regimen, as she recently shared on social media:
“Here’s a look into my workout the other day!” Bethany captioned the post.
“I’m trying to just get in my gym at least ten mins a day, which naturally turns into more (: I at least get some body care and therapy like moves done. Along with movement like this I’ll be walking and swimming a lot the next couple of months.
“I’ve been winding down on surfing at this point… Anyway the surf hasn’t been to great lately and other life goodness has been happening!
“Feeling baby wiggle up a storm in me as I write this.
“Stay motivated yawl!!!”
Back to surfing. Bethany recently made waves in the surf world when she publicly denounced the World Surf League’s new policy on transgender athletes. Needless to say, it was controversial. As a result of the new policy announcement, she said she would officially withdraw from future WSL competitions.
“I strive to have love for all of mankind, despite of any differences,” she said. “But this concerns me as a professional athlete who has been competing in World Surf League events for the past 15-plus years. I feel that I must speak up for those that feel they cannot say something about this.
“I feel that many of the girls on Tour are not in support of this rule, and that they will be ostracized if they speak up. I personally believe that the best decision would be to make a separate division to give athletes a fair opportunity to showcase their passion and talent.
“I personally won’t be competing in the World Surf League if this rule remains.”
But you can bet Bethany will be back in the water no matter what — whether it’s in a jersey or not. And she’ll have another little one with her soon to share the joy of surfing with, too.
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