'Para surfing got me back in the ocean after accident'

"The ocean is a magic place for me - to be able to access it is so important," says Cam Treble, who competed in the English Para Surfing Open in Cornwall.

He took up para surfing - in which a disabled individual uses a board - following an accident that left him partially paralysed, and talks about the "epic" event.

Thanking "the incredible volunteers" at the event on Fistral Beach, Newquay, Treble said, prior to his accident a year ago, he had been "in the ocean free diving, spear fishing, surfing, kite surfing - all sorts."

Surfing England said Abbie Potts and Finn Jones, both members of the Team England Para Development Squad, secured medals during the event on Saturday.

The organisation also gave Treble a special shout-out for "matching the pace" of his competitors despite it being only his second time para surfing.

"It's absolutely epic," said Treble, who said he had an "amazing" support group with him.

In a message to others who may be considering a sport for those with disabilities, he said they should "just give it a go".

"Worst case, you get a bit wet. Best case, you catch some good waves, have an amazing time and meet some amazing people," he said.

Meanwhile, Surfing England said Treble was a "promising prospect" in the England para surfing community.

"We hope to see much more of Cameron in the future," it added.

Describing a "brilliant atmosphere" at the event, the organisation praised athletes' "camaraderie" and the support of volunteers.

It added: "With the standard on show... the future of English para surfing looks brighter than ever."

It said athletes had travelled "from far and wide" for the event, at which surfers "absolutely ripped" across every division.

Jack Patching, from Surfing England, said para surfing allowed people with disabilities to have access to sport.

There were nine classifications, he said, including for those with visual impairments and people with spine injuries, as well as seated, standing and kneeling events.

"It's really such a broad spectrum to allow everyone to get in the water and compete," he added.

All thew event's results are available online.

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