Despite doctors initially doubting his athletic potential, Matt Formston, a three-time World Parasurfing champion proved them wrong by becoming a professional athlete and Paralympian. In Nazaré, Portugal, Formston defied the odds by conquering its towering waves despite being blind.
Formston, who grew up on Narrabeen, has displayed unwavering confidence since he was a young child. Macular dystrophy gradually stole his sight, leaving him with only peripheral vision in three per cent of his right eye and one per cent in his left.
Although everything appears blurry, he can distinguish shapes and lines. Details, however, elude him, and the outline of people’s faces becomes visible only when they are very close.
Despite the discouragement from doctors who believed he could never engage in sports, Formston shattered expectations and became a professional athlete and Paralympian.
Recently, he took on an extraordinary challenge: big wave surfing. His destination of choice was the renowned Nazaré. Its adrenaline-pumping waves can tower up to an impressive 25 meters (82 feet).
Whilst many surfers shy away from Nazaré’s colossal waves, Formston fearlessly embraced the challenge. He relies heavily on his team for guidance. Although he cannot see anything once he is on the wave, his other senses and communication with his support crew become his eyes.
Accompanied by a film crew, Formston embarked on his journey to Portugal in November 2022 to document his experience in a captivating documentary titled “The Blind Sea.”
Formston’s jet ski driver, Lucas Chumbo, and teammate Dylan Longbottom devised a whistle system to assist him. The whistle serves as a crucial form of communication. It signals when to release the tow rope, when to make a turn, and when to conclude the wave.
By following this process, Formston successfully rode approximately 25 waves during his 12-day stay, ranging in size from 20 to 50 feet. For Formston, the significance lies not in winning titles or breaking records as a blind surfer, but in the ability to compete and demonstrate what is possible.
Nazaré represents more than just a competition for him. It symbolises a responsibility to defy limitations. He wants to inspire individuals with disabilities, encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite the obstacles. Despite his visual impairment, he remains ready to conquer any challenge that comes his way.
Published 28-June-2023.
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