Session 1, Summer 2013 Wahine on Waves

Yesterday was the first of the Wahine on Waves series of 3 sessions this summer. At Gisborne Pipe surf break over 50 girls took to the water to work on existing skills or learn to surf. With local rippers Jasmine Smith, Abby Logan, Jayda Martin Fitzharris showing the girls their talented surfing athleticism.

Local Coaches/ surfers donated their time to introduce some girls to the healthy lifestyle of surfing that is readily available here in Gisborne.
Blitz Surf Shop, Raza Surf School and Okitu Store kindly donated boards and wetsuits.

Many Wahine had not been back in the water since having children or either tiny gromettes ( young surfers ) ready to start to their lifelong addiction, everyones story was interesting! The range of abilities and ages was super varied. From 6 years to 46 years the aim of the day was to get amongst the waves and have a blast!

The weather was a little challenging with rain early on and gusty nor westerlies but the sun came out and the waves were great ranging from 2- 3 foot, perfect to the catch a green face out the back, a reformed wave in the middle or the white wash on the inside.

The Gisborne Boardriders club had a fundraiser sausage sizzle and everyone awaited anxiously for the prizegiving. Nalley Marino won a special prize ‘VonZipper prizepack’ for her determination and persistence at popping up. Everyone took a spot prize home along with a big smile and I would say some Wahine would have had a well earned afternoon siesta.

The day was extremely successful and wouldn’t have been as awesome without your support, so thank you for all the lovely prizes you so kindly donated! One lucky lady even took home a BW ticket for the festival on the 27th Dec.

The Girls were stoked on the event and are already looking forward to the next one on 13 Feb 2013. Rest assured Girls Surfing in Gisborne is on the UP!

Thank you very much.