 Stef Tor gives wakeskating tips to a new wakeskater |
MBAC host inaugural Ladies Freeride Clinic
Event offers local women riders a relaxed, comfortable environment to ride
As if blessed by some unseen power, the inaugural session of the first ever Ladies Freeride Clinic at the Mission Bay Aquatic Center saw some of the best riding conditions seen on Mission Bay for the past several seasons. The participants, varying in background and experience from youth camp cross-over's, to seasoned veterans, and even a rider who experienced their first pull ever, enjoyed the chance to meet and ride with other local women riders.
And as a bonus, it didn't hurt to get advice from a professional rider.
 Stef Tor signs Maven DVD's at the Ladies Freeride Clinic. |
Liquid Force Star Stef Tor (www.steftor.com) flew all the way from Orlando, Florida to be on-hand and give some tips and inspire a new generation of women riders in a sport that has traditionally had predominantly male participants. In fact Stef, who specializes in wakeskating, has been nationally competitive in the male categories, as there are often not enough female competitors to merit a female category.
Stef felt this event was great to inspire the riders to take the chance to try the growing sport of wakeskating.
"When I do an event like this and ask the girls to try wakeskating, they usually run and hide," says Stef. "When I asked at this all girl event, everybody raised their hand and was excited to learn more about it."
Stef also spent time chatting with the participants about riding technique, encouraging them to not be nervous about going for it.
 Maven Brand Manager Kathleen Penny shows off wakeboarding equipment designed specifically for women. |
"You have to tell yourself it's just water and if you fall, you fall," Stef advised a tip seeking student.
In addition to a demo ride by Stef, the folks at Liquid Force provided instruction on board set-up and selection. Many participants assembled their own board straight from the wrapper under the watchful eye of Maven Brand Manager Katherine Penny, who conducted the equipment clinic. Liquid Force, recognizing the increase participation of women in wake sports has developed the Maven brand (www.liquidforcemaven.com) of equipment designed specifically for the women rider. The line includes boards, bindings, life jackets and apparel.
The next Ladies Freeride Clinic will be held at the MBAC on April 9th from 8-11am. Pre-registration is required.
