Raemondo Lessing is an inspiring South African para- surfer from Khayelitsha, Cape Town. After contracting meningococcal meningitis at five months old, he lost both legs and part of his right arm. Raised in a loving and resilient family, he grew up determined to defy limitations.

In 2021, Raemondo discovered adaptive surfing through the Roxy Davis Foundation. Competing in the prone division, he quickly excelled becoming a national champion within 18 months. His talent earned him a place on the South African team for the 2022 ISA World Para Surfing Championships in California, where he won multiple medals and finished 18th globally. On his 16th birthday, he proudly received his South African Colours.

In 2025, he was selected again to compete at the World Para Surfing Championships in Oceanside, California, solidifying his status as one of South Africa’s brightest young adaptive athletes. Balancing school at Jan Kriel with training, Raemondo continues to inspire communities with his courage, discipline, and ambition, proving that true strength lies in perseverance and passion.

Global achievements

2022 ISA World Para Surfing Championships (Pismo Beach, California)
Represented Team South Africa in the Men’s Prone 2 (assisted) division.

Finished 18th in the world out of ~50 competitors. Selected as South Africa’s flag bearer at the Opening Ceremony.
Contributed to Team SA finishing 5th overall out of 28 countries.

Represented South Africa at the brics games in 2023 where he was crowned second place.
Selected for the South African National Para Surfing Team after just 2 years of surfing.

Featured in major South African media (News24, Cape Times, IOL, Citizen) as one of the country’s rising para- athletes.
Recognized by the Western Cape Education Department for representing South Africa on the global stage.

National achievements

3x South African national champion.( Surfing)
2x South African champion in table tennis.
SA summer national schools overall winner in singles and in doubles.
Crowned JAN Kriel sports man of the year with disability in the year 2022.