As the wetsuit has transformed the Irish coastline, so surfing has transformed many people’s sporting lives. Next weekend, a ladies-only Oceanic Surf and Sea Festival takes place in Tramore, Co Waterford, supported by the Women in Sport initiative and the Irish Surfing Association, a day when male rippers will take a back seat for a change.
The festival, created by women for women, is free and aimed at 18-year-olds and upwards, from starters and aspirational surfers to the more hard-core wave riders. Experts will be on hand to instruct beginners and those wishing to improve their skills. Apart from learning about equipment and how to choose a wave, the perimeter frolic at the weekend will include Indian head-massage sessions, Pilates instruction, a Saturday evening barbecue and a champagne-cocktail reception with live entertainment. Sunday will broaden out to include family entertainment, a monster skate jam and a classic Volkswagen show. Further details on www.oceanics.ie.
