Some of the best female surfers on the South Coast will be in Kiama tomorrow battling it out in this year’s first and only all female surf series, the Challenge Her Teams Classic.

The Challenge Her Teams Classic is being hosted by Surfing NSW in conjunction with Jones Beach Boardriders Club (JBB). There will be a total of 12 teams of eight surfers competing. JBB has three teams of females aged nine and over and Werri Beach Boardriders Club has one team. 

“We don’t get many surf events for our local competitors in our area,” says JBB Secretary, Jo Collinge

“We’re really excited that we’ve got the opportunity, especially for our club to put in three teams.

“We’ve got 24 girls and women who are competing.

“We haven’t gone with the most competitive teams to win on the day because we’ve really taken the approach that it’s all about participation and inclusion.”

Alongside the surf competition, they are also running various surf inspired workshops - with spots still open in the Longboard Technical Clinic and a Train Like a Woman workshop. The photography, confidence and mindset, and learn to surf workshops have already sold out.

There will also be a Roxy Q&A and team surf at Werri Beach this afternoon (Friday) from 4.30pm.

“We’re supplying a local judge and Surfing NSW’s bringing down a crew of female judges and personalities including some professional surfers for the day,” says Jo.

“Local musician Penny Hartgerink will also be playing live.

“We generally have a dedicated crew of committee members who come down and help set up and do the BBQ but we’re definitely welcoming all volunteers.”

The event was made in collaboration with Surfing NSW and the NSW Government’s sport strategy, Her Sport Her Way. It aims to increase participation and support females in surfing and build a more inclusive and joyful female surf culture.

It is likely to be held at Jones Beach, but Werri Beach is a backup option depending on the conditions. For those that can’t make it down to cheer the surfers on, it will also be broadcasted live on Kayo from 10am.

Team heats are in the water from 7.30am and each team surfs twice. The finals will start from 12.50pm.

Go here to register for the workshops.