In the world of boardsports such as surfthe skate or the snowboardThe role of women is increasingly valued and highlighted. Competitions and sporting events now make a point of including these talented athletes, who delight spectators with their incredible performances and unwavering passion for their discipline. Here's an overview of the progress made in each of these three areas, as well as the challenges that remain to ensure gender parity in these sports.
Surfing: mixed competitions and greater media visibility
Historically dominated by men, the surf is a sport in which women are playing an increasingly important role on the international stage. This is reflected in the growing number of women's and mixed competitions organized every year. The World Surf League (WSL), which oversees all these competitions, has for several years been committed to guaranteeing the equal participation of women and men in surfing.equal premiums between male and female surfers, helping to raise the profile and credibility of women's surfing.
In 2019, the WSL took a significant step by announcing prize money parity for all its men's and women's competitions from the 2019 season. This landmark decision has been hailed as a significant step forward towards gender equality in the world of professional surfing.
The commitment to equal pay means that female professional surfers now receive the same financial reward as their male counterparts at WSL competitions. The decision has been applauded by many in the surfing community and has helped draw attention to other sports to promote equal pay for men and women.
Inspiring role models
Today, professional surfers are true ambassadors of their sport, and have breathed new life into the discipline. They include icons such as Carissa Moore, four-time world champion, and Justine Dupont, who regularly braves the biggest waves to push back the limits of her sport.
Skateboarding: increasing representation of women in competition
Long considered an essentially masculine universe, the world of skateboard has gradually opened up to women over the years. Governing bodies such as the International Skateboarding Federation (ISF) now promote female talent, encourage girls' and women's access to skateboarding and contribute to the improvement of skateboarding for women. their media visibility.
- Mixed and specific competitions for female skaters
- Highlighting female competitors at international events such as the Olympic Games
Women skateboarders: committed and talented
Many talented female skateboarders are now making their mark on the international scene, such as Brazil's Leticia Bufoni or Japan's AoriNishimura. Their performances, and their commitment to the recognition of their discipline, are helping to change mentalities and awaken a growing public interest in women's skateboarding.
Snowboarding: a sport where gender diversity is on the rise
If snowboarding has always been mixed discipline women have often been relegated to second place behind their male counterparts. Fortunately, major advances have been made in recent years, notably in the field ofequal rights and rewards for female competitors.
- Competitions now include specific categories for women
- Bodies like the International Snowboarding Association (ISA) are working to encourage women's snowboarding.
Exemplary snowboarders
Women are now increasingly present on the podium at international competitions. Examples include Chloé Kim, Olympic champion and multi-medallist in half-pipe, and Jamie Anderson, who regularly makes history in women's slopestyle. These courageous, determined athletes are role models for new generations of female snowboarders.
Although much has already been achieved to improve the position of women in board sports, there is still a long way to go to achieve true gender parity. The mobilization of athletes, federations and the public is essential to enable these talented sportswomen to shine at the highest level.
