BabeShredder, the social movement for female board sport athletes, held its largest competition August 8th at Quest ATX cable park in Austin, Texas. With sponsorship from Hyperlite, Rockstar, KIND Snacks, Elevated Clothing and City Surf Fitness, hundreds of spectators came out to cheer on the female riders. Six cash prizes were awarded to winners followed by a sponsor raffle and social hour at the park.

The event was equally impactful in encouraging advanced and beginner riders to progress their skills. “BabeShredder is a movement,” said founder, Ash Hannig. “Our events inspire passion, encouragement and learning amongst female riders to increase interest and participation in board sports. Stay tuned, BabeShredder has big plans in the works for events and activities coming up next season, “ she added. 

Access all event photos here.

"When I started BabeShredder over a year ago, I never thought it would be where it is today. All I had in mind was to establish a foundation and community for females who shred and bring more positive attention to the rad things they were doing. But since then, it has become so much more."

"I'll never forget the uncomfortable feeling I had a few years ago when overhearing someone in line at the cable park talk to his friend about my riding. It was clear that neither of them knew I was close enough to hear. One rider mentioned to the other that I was, "pretty good for a girl." 

"I wasn't quite sure what to make of that comment. Were male wakeboarders supposed to be "pretty good for a guy?" It all seemed a little unfair to be automatically subcategorized within the sport I was so invested in. I was a wakeboarder, I didn't think "girl" had anything to do with it."

"Today, BabeShredder stands to support a social movement not only for female board sport athletes, but for each and every girl that has experienced stereotyping and criticism while doing what they love. BabeShredder competitions and activities are meant to be encouraging - for all females to give it their best shot and see what a little courage can bring them." 

"Having been involved intensely in the wakeboarding industry for the past four years, I've realized that we still have a long way to go. But, our female force has a confident voice and we are all here to make waves." 

Composed by Bayley Ehlinger
Photo by RRP