CURL POWER: INSIDE THE FEMALE-LED SURF REVOLUTION.

Flying in the face of tradition, Monica set her sights on mastering the art of longboarding — not the easiest challenge! Longboards are bigger, heavier, and more dangerous than classic surfboards. Within 2 years, she had won her first title, placing first in the largest national surfing contest. Her tide had just started rising.
Picked to represent her country at the 2018 ISA World Championship, she became the first Chinese surfer to win a heat. Surfing has since been recognized as an Olympic Sport in China. Way to Guo, Monica!

With increased funding and acceptance from the government, Monica is more focused than ever on ensuring young women get their turn on the board. Her female-only summer surf camp encourages young girls from all across China to ride the waves, and — most importantly — to dream big.

Want more sea, surf & bikini life? 
Catch Monica Guo on Instagram: @monicaqie

Stephanie Gilmore - Australia - @stephaniegilmore

Her motto: “You can win a world title, but you’re never going to beat the ocean.”

Why we love her: This seven-time world champion began surfing at the age of ten. When she’s not on the board, she’s on the board… of a non-profit for marine conversation! Visit: seashepherd.org

More on Stephanie: In The Water Dancer docuseries, she explores how dancing and surfing intersect.

Emmanuelle & Uhaina Joly - France - 
@emmanuellejoly @uhaina_joly

Their motto: “Like surfer, like daughter.”

Why we love them: Born in the Summer of 1971 (an excellent vintage!), Emmanuelle is a 4-time French champion with 6 European titles. She kept surfing even at 7.5 months pregnant, and was back in the ocean 2 weeks after giving birth. No wonder her daughter Uhaina is a water baby (and pro surfer!).

More on Emmanuelle & Uhaina: Take a surf class on France’s West Coast with Emmanuelle as your coach!