64FEATURE LADIES WINDSURFING
Everyone had a great weekend. I have never seen so much enthusiasm and love for windsurfing from so many ladies all in one place. It was amazing to see girls not only pushing themselves on the water, taking on our advice and really improving their skills, but it was also fantastic to see how they helped and encouraged each other – giving feedback, tips and sharing what worked for them, stories of achievement, tales of funny crashes, achy muscles and finally making plans together for future sessions was great to hear.
Don’ t get me wrong I really enjoy sailing with everyone – male or female – and as I already said, often I am the only girl on the water which doesn’ t bother me at all. But coaching other ladies and sailing with girl friends on my time off has made me realise how for some people( myself included) having other ladies around has a big impact.
There are obviously differences between girls on the water and the guys. First there is the physical aspect. Often we don ' t have as much muscle or weight behind us and so we have to really nail technique to succeed. This means it can take ladies longer to reach milestones. But once we do it often our technique is better as we use less brute force.
uk
WIND SURFING
The physical side of windsurfing can be off-putting but it really shouldn ' t be. Windsurfing is not an easy sport but with the right equipment and conditions, as well as guidance and encouragement, it is something we can all succeed in.
It’ s not only the physical things though which set genders apart. A huge issue for women can be confidence. Whether it’ s wearing a wetsuit, rigging a sail alone, getting out at new locations or in more challenging conditions, trying bigger sails or smaller boards women tend to have less confidence, especially as we get older. Self-preservation comes into play and perhaps over-thinking gets in the way – a natural thing. Sailing and sharing the experience and emotions can really help us to work through and get past these psychological barriers, whatever your level.
When I first really experienced the benefits of sailing with ladies was in Fuerteventura during a PWA freestyle event. I found myself sailing with the best in the world and it was incredible. They were amazing to watch. They also inspired me so much as they were landing tricks I could only dream of and had only ever seen the boys perform. But what was special was how much they encouraged me and also offered advice to help