Carolina Beach’s Tony Silvagni helps blind girl learn to surf

Rachel Tucker is legally blind and suffers from heart disease, but that doesn’t get in the way of her “hanging ten” with a local pro surfer.

“It’s fun, it helps you get over your fear, if you have one. I’m not afraid of the ocean,” Tucker said.

Tony Silvagni is one of the 30 best longboard surfers in the world. Born and raised in Carolina Beach, he’s back in the neighborhood teaching eager surfers how to shred it like he does.

“I want them to enjoy surfing as much as I have in my lifetime,” Silvagni said.

At 8 years old, Skylar Bass makes it look easy. She’s been surfing for four years now, and is working with Tony to sharpen her skills.

Tucker started taking lessons from Tony to stay healthy. After only a few times out on the water, she’s already learning how to get up on her board. The waves certainly don’t scare her. She said having Tony with her makes her feel safe.

“I really don’t like putting people out there in storm surge, and real choppy conditions,” Silvagni said.

Silvagni hopes Rachel’s story will encourage others to overcome their fears, because for Silvagni and his students, the surf’s always up.

You can visit Surf School NC’s website for more information on taking lessons with Tony.