Bodysurfing Women Get a Global Stage

SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA — Kelly Slater once said that those who learn everything they can about bodysurfing will never take a wave for granted. As USA BodySurfing brings North America’s first world tour qualifying contest to T-Street, featuring a robust women’s division with athletes ranging in age from 16 to over 50, that sense of passion is palpable.

“One of the great things about bodysurfing is the low barrier to entry,” says USA BodySurfing COO Scotti Shafer. “All you need is your body and a wave to try it out." The organization aims to expand participation in the sport, qualify athletes for the inaugural International BodySurfing Championships in Hawaii, and eventually create an Olympic team. “While women's bodysurfing is still relatively small compared to men's, the caliber of the women competing in the North America series is second to none,” Scotti continues. “These ladies charge!"

To encourage involvement in women’s bodysurfing, USA BodySurfing looks to junior lifeguards, water polo teams, and other breeding grounds for strong swimmers. For these young athletes, going pro in bodysurfing is within reach.

Building a professional league from the ground up is no easy task, but it is a glimmering opportunity to create the world you want to see. With an emphasis on access, inclusion, and celebrating the pure pursuit of waves, USA BodySurfing is doing just that.

The T-Street contest will take place on Friday, May 12, 2023.

Female Competitors

Calla Allison

Meredith Rose

Sunceray Rickard

Miko Baron

Scotti Shafer

Makena Magro

Michelle Urkov

Marion Christensen

Katy Collins

Cassandra Flores-montano

Jennifer Gallacher

Kelly Canby

Joanne Zachau

Sophia Cendro

Jacqueline Ewing

Peyton Boyd

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