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Surf ’s Up A Little Compton-based non-profit empowers youth of all abilities with aquatic sports If you hear triumphant whoops mingling with the splash and froth of waves on Little Compton beach this summer, and then spot an onlooker shedding a tear of joy, there’s a good chance you are witnessing the magic of Gnome Surf therapy. “Gnome Surf is a non-profit surf therapy organization serving kids of all abilities, with a focus on those with autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, depression, and anxiety,” explains founder and executive director Christopher Antao. “Our research shows that over 98 percent of our athletes feel happier from the experience, over 93 percent feel more self-confident, 100 percent of them would try it again, and 100 percent of parents would recommend it. So you can see the power of surf therapy!” Photos by Bethany Foltz, courtesy of Gnome Surf The Bay • June 2022 9
