More than 30 aspiring bodyboarders gathered at Melkbosstrand Beach on Mandela Day for a free development clinic hosted by World Bodyboarding Champion Tristan Roberts in partnership with Cape Town Bodyboarding.
Held on Saturday, 18 July 2026, the clinic provided young riders of all ages and abilities with the rare opportunity to learn from one of the world’s most accomplished bodyboarders. As a World Champion, Roberts has competed at the highest level of the sport, and on Mandela Day he chose to give back by sharing his experience, knowledge and passion with the next generation of South African athletes.
Throughout the clinic, Tristan provided hands-on coaching in bodyboarding technique, wave selection, ocean awareness, water safety and competition preparation. More importantly, he encouraged participants to embrace the values of perseverance, respect and sportsmanship that have shaped his own career.
The free clinic formed part of Cape Town Bodyboarding’s ongoing commitment to growing the sport by making quality coaching accessible to young people, regardless of their experience or background. By removing financial barriers and providing direct access to elite coaching, the organisation continues to create opportunities for aspiring bodyboarders to develop both their skills and confidence in the ocean.
Cape Town Bodyboarding said the success of the clinic demonstrated the importance of experienced athletes investing in grassroots development.
“Having a World Champion like Tristan Roberts volunteer his time and share his knowledge with our riders is invaluable,” said a Cape Town Bodyboarding spokesperson. “His willingness to give back reflects the true spirit of Mandela Day and demonstrates his commitment to growing bodyboarding in South Africa. Experiences like these inspire young athletes, strengthen our community and help build the future of the sport.”
Beyond developing technical skills, the clinic highlighted the role that bodyboarding can play in promoting healthy lifestyles, building confidence and fostering a lifelong respect for the ocean. Participants also experienced the sense of community that lies at the heart of Cape Town Bodyboarding, where athletes, families and volunteers work together to grow the sport in an inclusive and supportive environment.
The Mandela Day development clinic is one of several initiatives undertaken by Cape Town Bodyboarding to encourage participation, identify emerging talent and make bodyboarding more accessible across the Western Cape. Through partnerships with athletes such as Tristan Roberts, the organisation aims to inspire more young people to experience the excitement of the sport while creating pathways for future champions.
None of this would be possible without the continued generosity of Cape Town Bodyboarding’s sponsors. A special thank you to Atlantic Surf and Boardlife, whose ongoing support helps make events like this free clinic possible and continues to drive the growth of bodyboarding in the Western Cape.
Cape Town Bodyboarding extends its sincere thanks to Tristan Roberts, the more than 30 participants, volunteers and families who made the clinic a memorable success.
