NCW’s newest member of the team, Becci Thorpe, is a keen surfer and outdoors lover. Ever ready to be up and at some wave action we thought we’d rope Becci in every month to give her the female perspective on surfing, watersports in general and her observations from the peak. Over to Becci for the first of her regular musings.
I still consider myself new to surfing as I am surrounded by people who have grown up doing it. It is really natural to them. I was a teenager when I first became interested, but it has only been in the past 4 years that I have really progressed and pushed to learn more. It was in my early twenties that I moved to Cornwall and have witnessed the sport grow in popularity, especially with women.
I know surfing is a part of life here. Like in many coastal areas. There has always been a mix of men and women surfing. It is only in the past few years, however, I have noticed more women in the water and groups specifically for women to learn to surf or develop their skills appearing. Social media, magazines, books and feminism as a whole have definitely helped to grow the popularity of the sport. It is really inspirational and great that women are being recognised their wants and needs within surfing are different.
My surf friends are of different abilities and I’m loving seeing all the encouragement given – whatever the level. I have always been made to feel equal, and I think we spread this feeling when we’re in the water which is really really important for anyone new to surfing, regardless of gender. Moving forwards I’m keen to see more women take up surfing and grow the scene locally and globally. It’s a positive thing and I’m super happy to be part of something wholesome and natural.
If you’re thinking of getting involved with surfing then here are my top tips of the month.
Becci’s surf tips of the month:
- Always check the conditions before entering the water! Safety first!
- Never be put off surfing with people who are more experienced than you. Turn that intimidated feeling into an inspirational feeling!
- Always keep it fun! If the paddle out seems too far or the waves too big, have a white water sesh!
Stay tuned for more of Becci next time. If you’d like to get her take on an aspect of surfing then let us know and we’ll see what we can do. And don’t forget to check out Becci’s Q&A via the link below.
And for more female surfing inspiration check out this article.