Tyler Wright, a two-time world surfing champion, recently shared her alarming experiences of verbal and physical abuse while surfing, highlighting significant safety issues within the sport. Her revelations come amid a broader discussion on the challenges faced by women in surfing, particularly regarding localism and intimidation in the water.
Key Takeaways
- Tyler Wright has faced both verbal and physical attacks while surfing.
- A recent study indicates that many women surfers experience similar intimidation.
- Localism, where local surfers assert dominance, is a significant issue.
- There is a call for more women in leadership roles within the surfing community.
Tyler Wright’s Experiences
Wright has openly discussed the hostile environments she has encountered while surfing, 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 emphasizes that these experiences are not isolated, as many women surfers report feeling intimidated and unwelcome.
Research Findings
A pilot research project conducted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) explored the experiences of women in surfing. Key findings include:
- Localism: Many women feel pressured to prove themselves in the water, often facing intimidation from male surfers.
- Competitive Opportunities: Women have fewer opportunities compared to their male counterparts, highlighting a need for better development pathways.
- Community Support: Female surfers often find safety in numbers, supporting each other to create a more welcoming environment.
Personal Accounts of Intimidation
Samantha Oakes, a surfer from Cronulla, shared her experiences of intimidation, stating that she has been dropped in on multiple times and even suffered a broken arm due to aggressive behavior from male surfers. Her 13-year-old daughter, Natalia, has also faced verbal abuse, making her question her place in the sport.
Oakes emphasizes the importance of choosing safe surfing spots, saying, "There are days when the surf is great, but I know there will be surfers who will make that experience horrible."
The Need for Change
Dr. Ece Kaya, who worked on the UTS study, advocates for a cultural shift within the surfing community. She notes that many women feel they must prove themselves constantly, which can deter them from participating fully in the sport.
To address these issues, the study suggests:
- Implementing codes of conduct at local surf spots.
- Increasing the number of women in leadership roles within surfing organizations.
- Establishing mentoring programs to support young female surfers.
Progress and Future Directions
Recent initiatives, such as equal prize money and government funding for women’s board rider clubs, indicate progress in the surfing community. However, Wright and Dr. Kaya stress that more needs to be done to ensure inclusivity and safety for all surfers.
Wright believes that if she could change one thing about surfing, it would be to make it more accessible to everyone. She states, "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."
Conclusion
The experiences shared by Tyler Wright and other women surfers shed light on the pressing need for change within the surfing community. By addressing issues of localism, intimidation, and gender inequality, the sport can become a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
Sources
- Tyler Wright has been attacked by men while surfing, and new research says she is not alone, Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
