Braxton braves the cold as 365-day milestone nears

A TORQUAY youngster is edging closer to completing an impressive 365 consecutive days of getting into the water to raise funds for his local surf lifesaving club.

Twelve-year-old Braxton Smith has braved the cold temperatures for more than 340 days on his year-long surf, paddle and swim journey.

The Year 7 student at St Joseph’s College will conclude his challenge on August 1.

He has already raised more $3000 to help purchase new paddle boards for his fellow members at the Torquay SLSC.

Braxton said the challenge had helped him keep active for a good cause.

 

“I’ve been really enjoying getting out every day. I like just being out there and surfing and paddling – I’ve even been surfing on my Nippers board,” he said..

“I’ve had two good wetsuits to keep me warm. I’ve been in both a 4’3 and a 5’4. It’s been really fun so far.”

Braxton said the funds raised would hopefully help more local surfers and lifesavers to enjoy the water safely.

“I just want more kids to be able to have boards to use for competition and for training,” he said. “To have raised just over $3000 is pretty awesome. I’m pretty happy with it.

“I’ve still got a goal of getting to $5000 by the end of the 365 days.

 

“I’m supposed to have some of my family donating a dollar a day, which will definitely help.”

Strapper Surf and Quiksilver have also chipped in to provide Braxton with some special donations and clothing.

Braxton’s father Ben said he was very proud of his son’s efforts.

“He’s been pretty committed to the cause,” Mr Smith said.

“Through the summers we were at the beach every morning, but it’s gotten more difficult over winter with the shorter days. It’s not light until 7.30am and he is already on the bus, and then it’s dark by 5.30pm.

“He’s still been smashing it out, though.”

Mr Smith said his son was likely to push his surf mission beyond 365 days.

“He’s keen to keep it going a few days longer, which is great,” he said.

“Braxton also wants to push his swimming for the upcoming nipper season. It’s his last year of nippers, so he’s keen to get some good results.”

To donate, head to gofundme.com/f/raising-funds-for-tslsc-nipper-program