Pro surfers inspire young guns

More than 50 young WA girls had their dreams come true on Tuesday when they got to paddle out with some of the world’s best female surfers.

Rising Tides, a World Surf League initiative, was launched this year to give aspiring surfers the chance to catch a wave with their idols.

WSL athletes Stephanie Gilmore, Keely Andrew, Macy Callaghan, Johanne Defay and local favourite Bronte Macaulay spent time talking with the girls aged 10-16.

WSL Commissioner Jessi Miley-Dyer said Rising Tides was committed to improving youth engagement in professional surfing.

“Last year as part of our equal prize money initiative we wanted to do more for female surfers so we committed to a grassroots program which is Rising Tides,” she said.

“I remember when I was young I got to meet Layne (Beachley) and I remember how excited I was to meet her and I still remember getting that photo.

“When you are able to meet your heroes, it shows that they are real people and that young girls can aspire to be one of these role models one day.”

Last year’s Uluwatu Pro winner Johannes Defay said the initiative was inspiring for both the girls and the pro athletes.

“Just meeting all the local girls and young girls has been very empowering for us as women, together we are stronger,” she said.