Bournemouth para surfer sponsored by Poole e-bike company

Zoe Smith surfed for Team England and won a silver medal at the World Para Surfing Championships in 2023.

After losing her leg in a car accident, she decided to take up surfing in 2021, learning her craft at The Wave in Bristol.

Zoe contacted Synch while looking for a brand that aligns with surf culture and supports the para-surfing community. 

The Poole-based company designs and hand-builds retro electric bikes.

Synch collaborated with Zoe, making her a personalised army green e-bike with wide tyres, a comfortable seat, and features to get around on the sand.

Zoe said: "One thing I find really hard is to ride a standard bike. I haven't ridden a bike since I lost my leg.

"The beauty of these bikes is that they have high knee clearance; it's cleverly designed to negate that issue."

Matt French founded Synch in 2019; he envisioned fast, efficient, stylish electric bikes offering eco-friendly urban transport.

Matt said: "When Zoe got in touch, we jumped at the opportunity to help her.

"I read her story and was wowed at how well she is doing locally and on the world stage."

Zoe and Matt with synch e-bike under Bournemouth Pier (Image: Zoe Smith and Matt French)

When Zoe received the new bike, she said: "I am so happy to be supported by a local brand and have a bike that looks totally badass.

"I know for a fact that anyone who sees this bike will want to know where it's from."

Zoe is training hard at Bournemouth Beach to eclipse her silver medal from last year.

She is currently working with Dean Griffiths, who works at the Sorted Surf Shop in Boscombe.

He assists her with getting in and out of the water at rocky beaches throughout Dorset. 

Zoe added: "England's Para Surf team are always looking for sponsors.

"Para surfing requires much higher infrastructure to get people into the water. Funding will go towards training and accessibility."