Kirsten Thomas joins the Surfing Doctors

KIRSTEN THOMAS

Kirsten Thomas joins the Surfing Doctors

Kirsten is a hard-charging goofy-footer from Cape Town. Well-travelled and not shy of a set, she has been to G-land, Reunion and Bali, amongst other destinations.

Nationality?

South African

Current Position?

Anaesthetist at Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town

Education and work experience?

I am working as an anaesthesia registrar at Groote Schuur Hospital. This involves working in theatre as well as the ICU. I have a diploma in anaesthesiology, a diploma in primary emergency care and an MBChB from Stellenbosch University.

Before medicine, I was a paramedic who worked for the local HEMS service and in an ambulance. I was also an ops medic in the South African National Defence Force.

Previous Volunteer Work?

I am always happy to give my time for a good cause. Currently I am involved with Project Flamingo, which does a volunteer catch-up list for breast cancer surgery. I have volunteered in the ambulance and at sports events. Also, I am a volunteer instructor on the ATLS course.

Medical interests? Have you found your niche?

I am pretty settled and happy doing anaesthesia.

Local surf spot?

Sea Point, Cape Town or one of the many “secret” spots here when the swell is right.

What is your favourite surf destination?

Honestly, Elands Bay on the day before the crowds arrive.

Travel experience?

My dad is Ronald Kingma, also a surfer. He has treated me and taken me on many epic surf trips. I have surfed in Indo, the Maldives, Reunion, and Australia. My other hobby is snowboarding, which has also taken me to some nice places.

Best surf trip ever?

I recently surfed in Reunion with my dad, and it was epic. We had fun together in warm water with great waves.

Worst surf trip ever?

Even a bad surf is still better than no surf! I always check in with my dad about a site before heading there, though – he is a master at predicting swell.

The best thing about surfing?

It is pure relaxation; while in the water, your head feels clear, and nothing else seems to matter but getting the next wave.

I have also been teaching my husband to surf and have learned to enjoy even the small foamies and Muizenberg again. It is just somehow always fun.

What was the best advice you have ever given about surfing?

Paddle harder.

Favourite surfer in the world and why?

Obviously, my dad. He finds me good waves and still takes me on surf holidays.

Current go-to surfboards? (make and dims)

Pyzel Ghost – 5’11.