On June 8, 2024 Cardiff State Beach in Encinitas came alive with the joyous sounds of young girls learning to surf. This special event, known as Wahine Day, was the second event of its kind organized by the Encinitas Boardriders and aimed to nurture and introduce girls aged five to ten to the exciting world of surfing. The term “wahine” is a Hawaiian word that means young woman surfer and is often used in the context of female surfers. Wahine Day was more than just a surf lesson; it was a celebration of community, mentorship, and a shared love for the ocean.
The purpose of Encinitas Boardriders hosting a Wahine Day was to create a comfortable and supportive environment where young girls could learn to surf, make new friends, and develop an appreciation for the ocean. The event brought together nearly 60 girls, matched with young, experienced coaches and even some WQS surfers volunteering their time as coaches. The goal being to provide the young surfers with high-quality instruction and inspiration.
The event kicked off with chilly, breezy weather typical of Encinitas’ June Gloom. However, as the day progressed, the sun broke through, and the beach was buzzing with excitement and activity. The waves at Cardiff Reef, ranged from 2 to 4 feet, offered non-stop action, ensuring that the girls had plenty of opportunities to practice and have fun in the surf. Sun Bum provided sunscreen to keep everyone protected from the sun, while VG Donuts and East Coast Pizza generously donated food, ensuring the participants, families, and volunteers were well-fed and energized.
Photographers Nicolas Paoni and Harry Martin, legends in documenting Encinitas surfing culture, were present to capture the smiles, wipeouts, and triumphs of the day. Their presence added an extra layer of excitement, knowing that their moments of learning and fun were being recorded by such amazing photographers.
At the end of the day, Wahine Day was a remarkable success for the Encinitas Boardriders, the volunteers, the participants, and the community as a whole. The event showcased the power of community involvement and the importance of encouraging young girls to pursue their interests in a supportive environment. The presence of professional surfers not only elevated the quality of instruction but also served as a source of inspiration for the young participants, showing them what is possible with dedication and passion.
For the volunteers, many of whom were experienced surfers themselves, Wahine Day was an opportunity to give back to the community and share their love for the sport. It was amazing to see the overall support, with everyone guiding and encouraging the younger girls.
For the participants, Wahine Day was more than just learning to surf. It was about building confidence, making new friends, and experiencing the stoke of surfing. The event provided a safe space for the girls to challenge themselves and discover their potential, leaving them with a sense of accomplishment and excitement for future surfing adventures.
In conclusion, Wahine Day at Cardiff State Beach was a celebration of community, mentorship, and the joy of surfing. It brought together nearly 60 girls, supported by generous sponsors like VG Donuts, East Coast Pizza, and Sun Bum, and captured by the talented photographers Nicolas Paoni and Harry Martin. The event not only introduced young girls to surfing but also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among the participants, volunteers, and their families. Wahine Day was a testament to the positive impact of community-driven events and the enduring spirit of surfing in Encinitas.
We can’t wait for the next one!
Written by Chris Persidok.
