Tyler Wright, a two-time world surfing champion, has bravely shared her experiences of violence and intimidation faced by women in the surfing community. Speaking as part of a research project at the University of Technology Sydney, she highlighted the alarming prevalence of aggressive behavior towards female surfers, calling for a cultural shift within the sport.
Key Takeaways
- Tyler Wright has experienced physical and verbal abuse while surfing.
- A study reveals systemic issues of localism and intimidation against women in surfing.
- The surfing community is urged to create a safer and more inclusive environment for all.
Tyler Wright’s Experiences
Wright recounted her personal encounters with aggression in the water, stating, "I’ve been attacked by men in the water, I’ve been hit in the head, I’ve been yelled at, screamed at." She emphasized that these environments can be not only dangerous but also intimidating, especially for those who are new to the sport.
Research Findings
The research, conducted by Dr. Ece Kaya and Dr. Leila Khanjaninejad, involved interviews with various female surfers, including world champions and club members. Key findings include:
- Localism: Many women reported feeling pressured to prove themselves to male surfers, often facing intimidation and aggression.
- Competitive Opportunities: Women have fewer opportunities in competitions compared to their male counterparts, highlighting a need for better development pathways.
- Cultural Barriers: The study identified a male-dominated culture in surfing that discourages female participation and leadership.
The Need for Change
Wright and the researchers argue that the surfing community must acknowledge and address these issues. Wright stated, "I feel like surfing is, in a general sense, a very exclusive sport." She called for a shift in perception, advocating for a more welcoming environment for women.
Community Support and Initiatives
The research also pointed to positive developments, such as:
- Equal Prize Money: Recent initiatives have aimed to provide equal prize money for male and female surfers.
- Government Funding: A $1 million investment has been made to establish 50 new women’s board riding clubs in Australia.
- Women-Only Events: The introduction of women-specific surf events is seen as a way to foster a supportive community.
Personal Stories of Intimidation
Many women, like Samantha Oakes, have shared their own experiences of intimidation in the water. Oakes, who surfs with her daughter, has faced aggressive behavior that has made her cautious about where to surf. She noted, "There is still about 20 percent of the community that looks at a woman in the surf and goes, you’re not as good as me, you don’t deserve that wave."
Moving Forward
Dr. Kaya emphasized the importance of creating a safe environment for women in surfing. She suggested that local surf spots implement codes of conduct to promote respect and inclusivity. Wright echoed this sentiment, stating, "The ocean is for everyone, and we need to change the behavior of some aspects of our society to have respect for everyone in the water."
As the surfing community grapples with these issues, the call for change is clear: to ensure that all surfers, regardless of gender, can enjoy the ocean safely and without fear of intimidation.
Sources
- Tyler Wright Speaks Up About Surf Violence Against Women, The Inertia.
- Tyler Wright has been attacked by men while surfing, and new research says she is not alone, Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
