Girls who surf - Iona

Where do you usually surf?
Scotland! But now Gold Coast.

How did you get into surfing?
I first tried surfing when I was 17, on a small Scottish island called Tiree. It then took me another 10 years until I finally got my own board and got out regularly but I never forgot that feeling of catching a wave!

Why did you start surfing?
It is the most freeing thing I have ever done and to feel totally at one with the ocean is something else. It’s the most epic feeling in the world. I laugh through every wave, every wipeout, every time I feel like a seal flopping onto the board, haha.

What was your biggest fear when you started?
Not being able to progress and feel safe. But I researched boards and just got out there. Gradually, my confidence increased, and so did my ability to surf!

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to other surfer girls?
On a big surf day, go to the beach and just watch the more competent surfers, not to get tips from them, but to realise they wipe out all the time, just like beginners do. When I realised that, I stopped feeling embarrassed or worried about it and realised it’s all part of the fun!

Tell us a funny, embarrassing, or inspiring surf story!
I had my first party wave in New Zealand, at the famous surf town Raglan. There were loads of us out there, but it was the flattest water I’ve ever seen. Every five minutes or so (a long time sitting on the board!), one singular wave would come along, and it was no rule, everyone go for it! It was hilarious. And when it was flat calm, I looked around and thought to myself, Wow, I’m surfing in New Zealand, on a black sand volcanic beach, surrounded by lush green mountains. This is awesome.