McGillivray, Smith, Baum To Represent SA at 2024 Paris Olympics

Team South Africa en route to Teahupo'o, Tahiti, for the Olympic Games 2024. From left - Surfing South Africa president Isaac February, competitors Matt McGillivray, Jordy Smith, Sarah Baum, team coach Chris Bond, team manager Reza De Nicker, and team physio Shameez Bartlett. - Photo Credit: Surfing South Africa

Team South Africa has set off for Teahupo’o, Tahiti, for the surfing events of the Paris Olympics. Meet Jordy, Sarah, and Matt, who are flying the South African flag.

South Africa (22 July 2024) — Three South African surfers are competing in the Olympic Games: Jordy Smith, Matt McGillivray, and Sarah Baum. They have set off for the surfing events of the Paris Olympics in Teahupo’o, Tahiti, with competition days from July 27th to August 5th.

Surfing South Africa has proudly shared their excitement for the team representing South Africa.

Jordy Smith will come up against Ethan Ewing (Aus) and Tim Elter (Ger) in his first-round encounter, and Matt McGillivray will face Joan Duru (France) and Jack Robinson (Aus). Sarah Baum will come up against Yolande Hopkins (Por) and Caroline Marks (USA) in her first-round heat.

“I’m super-excited about competing in the Olympic Games, and Teahupo’o is an intense venue, so there is much anticipation around the event,” said Smith. “I think we’ve got a very confident and strong team, with Matt and Sarah, so hopefully we can bring home some medals. It always feels pretty electric at Teahupo’o, especially when there are waves, everyone wants to get a great barrel.”

The contest venue, Teahupo’o in Tahiti, is a much-revered surf location with waves that can get big and terrifying. Both Smith and McGillivray have excelled here in the past, and Baum is confident in waves of consequence, so there is much belief that our surfers will do well at this venue.

“In the surfing world, if you win a gold medal, for the rest of your life, you’re known as an Olympic Gold Medalist,” said Baum on her thoughts on the Olympics. “Whether you retire from surfing and you’re 60 at a barbecue or something, being a gold medalist is huge among people who don’t surf.”

Team manager Reza De Nicker is also very upbeat about the Olympics.

“Our athletes have reached the pinnacle of sports: the Olympic Games. The stage is right before them as we embark on a life-changing journey. Being in their corner is a humbling experience and a huge honour. They are as ready as possible with all the hard work already; now they just have to shine and soak it all in!”

You can follow the progress via Facebook here or watch on selected sporting channels.