EMPOWERING women, growing the sport of longboard surfing and developing young talent are just some of the goals for Durban North resident Christy Gilmour.
She recently made history by becoming the first woman and the youngest person to be selected as chairwoman of the South African Longboarding Association.
For the last decade, the 22-year-old has not only represented SA on the world stage in the sport, but she has also been at the forefront of organising longboard surfing events in the province and even started a surf school for young girls to find their way out on the waves in Durban.
“It was quite a shock when I was chosen, however, I’m confident that I’m capable of doing this and leading the association. If it wasn’t me and another woman had been chosen, I would still back it 100% and celebrate it.
Also Read: Organisation hosts disability rights fun day on Durban’s beachfront
Surfing and longboard surfing is traditionally seen as a male-dominated space, but I’m hoping to change that with the support of those around me,” she said.
Gilmour also acknowledge the outgoing chairperson, Paul O’Connell, for the work he has done behind the scenes for longboard surfing.
“Paul [O’Connell] has been incredibly supportive of the decision at the AGM, and he has supported me all the way. I’m grateful that he allowed me the opportunity to step forward. Since my appointment, I’ve been messaging him and learning from him, and he has been extremely helpful,” she said.
Gilmour added she felt her background in the sport as a competitor, organiser and mentor would also aid her in her journey as chairperson.
Also Read: Locals shine for SA at Hockey Masters World Cup
“I have a background in the sport that stretches back more than 10 years. I grew up on the longboarding scene. My dad is a national surfer and still competes to this day in longboard surfing in the Kahunas division. My goal has always been to grow the sport among young women. I started my own surf school when I was 18, and I remember from experience how daunting it was trying to catch a wave with other more experienced surfers in the water, who often wouldn’t let you catch a wave ahead of them,” she explained.
While there is no set time for her stewardship, Gilmour is ready to step into the role and embrace it with all the challenges.
“Ultimately, I would love to give longboard surfers hope by growing the sport and bringing the stoke to surf,” she said.
