This is a story of faith, courage, persistence, love, and inspiration. You can hear it first hand on 2 different occasions Thursday.

Bethany Hamilton, the international surfer who was 13 years old when she lost her arm in a shark attack on Kauai's North Shore, will visit Victoria on Thursday, according to the Victoria Advocate. Hamilton, a now 22-year-old professional surfer, travels the country as an inspirational speaker, encouraging others to pursue their dreams and grow their relationship with Christ.

Hamilton's autobiography, "Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to Get Back on the Board," was released in 2004. A film about her journey, "Soul Surfer," was released in 2011. "A Day with Bethany Hamilton," presented by the Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity, features two speaking events Thursday, including a noon luncheon at the Victoria Country Club and an evening event at 7 p.m. in Faith Family Church. Hamilton and her mother, Cheri Hamilton, will speak, answer questions and sign autographs during the event.

Tickets are available through itickets.com. Individual sponsorships of $500 include two luncheon tickets, reserved seating, early admittance and autograph opportunities or two evening VIP tickets with a meet-and-greet reception, hors d'oeuvres and photographs with Hamilton. Raffle tickets are $5 and may be purchased at Habitat for Humanity, for a chance to win a Bethany Hamilton-autographed surfboard. Ten percent of ticket proceeds will be dedicated to new home construction projects scheduled this fall in Jackson and Goliad counties.

IF YOU GO

The first event is titled "A Day with Bethany Hamilton, Soul Surfer," and features a Q&A with Bethany. It will take place from noon until 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the Victoria Country Club, 14 Spring Creek Drive. Tickets are $50.

The evening event is at 7 p.m. Thursday at Faith Family Church, 2002 E. Mockingbird Lane. Tickets are $15 to $25 with group rates available.

For more information go to  itickets.com, Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity, or call to reserve tickets at 361-573-2511. 

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