Grab your sunscreen, boards and circle Saturday, 2 May 2026 in bold on your calendar! The 100Wave Challenge is surfing its way back to Strandfontein Pavilion and next year: we’re going even deeper, louder and more connected than before.
This year’s inaugural event was nothing short of unforgettable. Over 250 surfers, families, aunties, uncles, groms and cheerleaders filled the beach with laughter, grit and a whole lot of stoke. Together, we raised over R176,000 – funds that helped us continue the work at the heart of 9Miles Project: mentorship, education, surf therapy, and creating safe spaces where young people can grow, belong, and believe in themselves.
And honestly? The most beautiful waves weren’t even in the water. They were in the stories we heard. One young person shared, “Before I joined 9Miles Project, I never thought I would find a place where I truly belong. Taking part in the 100Wave Challenge gave me purpose and showed me that I matter.”
That’s what makes this event more than a surfathon. It’s a reminder – a loud, sun-soaked, sand-between-the-toes one that purpose can be found in the simplest places: catching a wave, cheering for a friend, showing up for your community.
As our founder, Nigel Savel, puts it: “Strong communities start with strong families. The 100Wave Challenge gives youth and families a space to connect, to grow and to feel seen. Every wave surfed, every cheer on the shore, every ripple made, reminds a young person that they are important and loved.”
What’s Happening in 2026?
We’re bringing back the beloved challenge: surf 100 waves in a single day while raising funds that help us keep transforming lives across South Africa’s coastal communities.
This year’s fundraising goal? R250,000.
The invitation? Simple if you’re joining the surf lineup, aim to raise R1,000 or more through your own pledges or a BackaBuddy campaign. Every rand becomes a stepping stone for a young person finding their footing in life.
And of course, it’s not just about the surfing. Strandfontein Pavilion will be buzzing from sunrise to sunset with sailing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), snorkelling, art and paint stations, drumming, live music, vendors and a whole community showing up for something bigger than themselves
It’s a day for families. A day for ocean lovers. A day for anyone who believes in the power of hope, connection, and a good old-fashioned beach mission.
Ready to Join the Wave?
Register to surf:
Solo challenger? Team player? Either way, sign up here: Register here
Fundraise:
Support youth development by committing to raise R1,000 or more: Find out more
Partner or sponsor:
If you’re a business, brand, or individual wanting to make a tangible impact, we’d love to team up. Sponsor a surfer, power an activity, or help us bring the day to life
The 100Wave Challenge 2026 is more than an event; it’s a movement. A wave we ride together. And we can’t wait to see Strandfontein come alive once again with community, courage, and the kind of joy that reaches far beyond the shore.
Let’s surf for a purpose. Let’s make every wave count.
