Llywelyn Williams, a world champion adaptive surfer, has stated that losing his leg ultimately elevated his life, enabling him to achieve new possibilities through sport. Williams secured the 2026 Bright Sky Australian Pro Adaptive Surfing Championship title in the kneeling category in Byron Bay, New South Wales, in March.
He followed this success with a third-place finish at the North Shore Prosthetics Hawaiian Surfing Championships in May. Williams currently works as a digger driver in his family's construction business when he is not competing.
"I've learned how to do everything with one leg, except to be able to use a wheelbarrow," Williams said with a smile. "Disability for me has elevated my life - anything is possible if you have any kind of disability."
Williams funds his participation in surfing competitions himself and expressed gratitude for the support he has received. He has also been involved in advocacy efforts with other athletes to include adaptive surfing in future Paralympic Games.
"Surfing has been a huge part of my recovery and the adaptive surfing community has helped me so much," he added.
Williams' journey included a year traveling along the Australian coast with his family after turning 18, living in a camper van and surfing. The opportunity to return annually for competitions is something he cherishes.