Tyler Wright, a two-time world surfing champion, has recently come forward about her alarming experiences of verbal and physical abuse while surfing. This incident highlights a growing concern regarding the safety and inclusivity of women in surfing, as new research reveals that such attacks are not isolated incidents but part of a broader issue within the surfing community.
Key Takeaways
- Tyler Wright has faced both verbal and physical attacks while surfing.
- A recent study indicates that many women surfers experience intimidation and harassment.
- Localism in surfing is identified as a significant factor contributing to these issues.
- Calls for better representation and support for women in surfing are growing.
The Incident
Wright shared her experiences during a pilot research project conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). She described being attacked by men in the water, stating, "I’ve been hit in the head, I’ve been yelled at, screamed at." This reflects a troubling environment where women feel unsafe and unwelcome.
The Research Findings
The UTS study involved a diverse group of female surfers, from world champions to local board riders. Key findings include:
- Localism: Many women reported feeling intimidated by local surfers who assert dominance in the water.
- Fear and Intimidation: Women often feel they must prove themselves to male surfers, leading to a culture of fear.
- Limited Opportunities: Women surfers have fewer competitive opportunities compared to their male counterparts, highlighting a need for better development pathways.
Personal Accounts
Samantha Oakes, a surfer from Cronulla, shared her own experiences of intimidation, including a severe incident that resulted in a broken arm. She emphasized the need for women to choose their surfing spots carefully to avoid hostile environments. Her daughter, Natalia, has also faced verbal abuse, which has made her question her place in the sport.
Creating Safe Spaces
Dr. Ece Kaya, who worked on the UTS study, noted that many female surfers find safety in numbers, often surfing together to create a supportive environment. Oakes echoed this sentiment, stating that her daughter would not surf without her presence in the water.
The Need for Change
The research advocates for local surf spots to implement codes of conduct to promote respect and safety in the water. Oakes pointed out that a significant portion of the surfing community still harbors outdated views about women in the sport, stating, "The ocean is for everyone, and we need to change the behavior of some aspects of our society to have respect for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."
Progress and Future Directions
Recent initiatives, such as equal prize money and government funding for women’s board rider clubs, signal progress in the surfing community. However, experts like Dr. Kaya stress that more needs to be done, particularly in terms of sponsorship and competitive opportunities for women.
Wright believes that making surfing more accessible is crucial for its future. She stated, "I’d lean into making surfing for everyone," emphasizing the need for inclusivity in a sport that has historically been male-dominated.
Conclusion
The experiences of Tyler Wright and other women surfers underscore the urgent need for cultural change within the surfing community. By addressing issues of intimidation and promoting inclusivity, the sport can become a safer and more welcoming environment for all surfers, regardless of gender.
Sources
- Tyler Wright has been attacked by men while surfing, and new research says she is not alone, Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
