THE Fiji Surfing Association will organise a women’s surfing event at Natadola next weekend.

National surfing coach Ian Portingale said the event hosted by Hannah Bennett would be called the “Girls Go Surfing” day at Natadola.

“Over the past couple of years we have around 60 women of all ages participating in the safe structured learn to surf experience,” Portingale said.

Portingale said the aim of this upcoming surf clinic was to recognise women surfers all over Fiji and connect them with specific board rider clubs in order for them to carry on their surfing career.

“I not only want to give the ladies a day of fun surf training but I want to ensure they carry on the skills learned with the closest board rider club to their homes.

“It is important that girls meet each other to know they aren’t the only ones pursing surfing and can do so on a regular basis once they are made aware of the active clubs in their area.

“Continuation is key,” he said.

The surfing federation is heading to a busy month as they prepare for the ISA World Junior Surfing Championship titles in Japan. This event will be held on September 18.

“Our Fiji junior surfing team will depart today and competition starts on September 22 and finishes on October 1,” Portingale said.

“The venue is at Hyuga which is on the southernmost island of Japan and it’s expected to attract over 50 countries.

“This event is a lead-up to the Japan Olympics in 2020.

“On October 4 the Rip Curl Micro Grommet Series will be held at the swimming pools in Namotu.

“There are 30 surfers who have qualified for the final round in either U14, U12 and U10 boys and girls. Surfers gained qualification at the recent round 1 event at Natadola on August 26.”