- Name: Bethany Hamilton
- Current Age: 31
- Occupation: Professional Surfer, Author, Speaker
- Date of Birth: February 8, 1990
- Place of Birth: Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii, USA
- Nationality: American
- Parents: Tom Hamilton (Father), Cheri Hamilton (Mother)
- Siblings: Noah Hamilton, Timothy Hamilton
- Spouse: Adam Dirks
- Children: Tobias Dirks, Wesley Dirks
- Net Worth: $2 million (2024)
- Source of Wealth: Surfing, Books, Speaking Engagements
- Ventures: Bethany Hamilton Jewelry
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- Height: 5’11" (180 cm)
- Notable Works: "Soul Surfer" (Autobiography), "Unstoppable" (Documentary)
Early Life and Shark Attack
Bethany Meilani Hamilton was born on February 8, 1990, in Lihue, Hawaii, to parents Tom and Cheri Hamilton. She began surfing at the age of three and started competing at eight, gaining her first sponsorship by age 10. Hamilton was homeschooled from sixth grade through high school by her mother while her father worked as a waiter.
On October 31, 2003, at the age of 13, Hamilton survived a shark attack while surfing at Tunnels Beach, Kauai. A 14-foot tiger shark attacked her, biting off her left arm just below the shoulder. Despite losing over 60% of her blood and being in hypovolemic shock, Hamilton’s determination to return to surfing was unwavering.
Recovery and Return to Surfing
After the shark attack, Hamilton quickly adapted to surfing with one arm. She returned to the water just 26 days after the incident, using a custom-made board with a handle for her right arm. Hamilton taught herself to surf with one arm and entered her first major competition in January 2004. She now uses standard competitive shortboards and continues to inspire others with her resilience.
Professional Career and Media Recognition
Hamilton’s story gained widespread media attention, leading to appearances on various television shows and in magazines. Her manager helped navigate her transition from a shark attack victim to an inspirational figure. Hamilton’s autobiography, "Soul Surfer," was published in 2004 and later adapted into a feature film in 2011. She has also won several awards for her courage and comeback in professional surfing.
Personal Life and Advocacy
In 2013, Hamilton married youth minister Adam Dirks, with whom she has four children. Their life together is featured in the documentary "Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable." Alongside her professional surfing career, Hamilton offers mentorship classes on faith, healing, personal health, and relationships. She is actively involved in charitable efforts, including her foundation, Friends of Bethany, which supports amputees and youth.
Controversy and Advocacy Stance
In January 2023, Hamilton announced her boycott of World Surf League events due to their decision to allow transgender women to compete in the female category. She raised concerns about the fairness of hormone levels as the sole criteria for eligibility, advocating for a separate division for transgender athletes. While receiving support for her stance, Hamilton also faced criticism for being perceived as transphobic. She believes that many female athletes share her concerns but fear backlash for speaking out.
Financial Insights:
As of 2024, Bethany Hamilton’s net worth is estimated to be $2 million. The primary sources of her income include earnings from surfing competitions, book sales, and speaking engagements. Additionally, Bethany has capitalized on her brand by launching Bethany Hamilton Jewelry, a line of accessories inspired by her love for the ocean.
Bethany’s ability to overcome adversity and her entrepreneurial spirit have been key factors contributing to her wealth. Her authenticity and positive message have resonated with a wide audience, allowing her to build a successful career beyond the world of surfing.
