Victoria Feige's Fight to Bring Para Surfing to the 2028 Paralympics in LA

Victoria Feige, a five-time women's world para surfing champion, is spearheading efforts to include para surfing in the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. Despite California's history with the sport, LA's organizing committee has not proposed it due to cost and complexity concerns. Feige remains determined to change their mind.

Victoria Feige, a distinguished five-time women's world para surfing champion, is leading a determined campaign to include para surfing in the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles. Despite California being the home of the world para surfing championships since 2015, the LA organizing committee has opted not to propose the sport, citing cost and complexity.

"I was devastated," Feige expressed, recalling her journey. After suffering a spinal injury at 18, the now 39-year-old athlete has championed para surfing, culminating in a substantial movement since 2018. Feige celebrated her first world title under strict WADA anti-doping regulations, which bolstered her commitment to seeing her sport reach the Paralympics.

Undeterred by setbacks, Feige is planning a proof-of-concept event at a California wave pool after November's world championship, illustrating that para surfing can be both cost-effective and logistically feasible for LA 2028. She is joined by notable figures like Kelly Slater and Jack Johnson, who have publicly endorsed the effort.

(With inputs from agencies.)