Women are currently offered £500 prize money, while men are awarded £1000. This is the first time surfing in the UK has been gender equal in terms of the prize purse.

Tennis, athletics, volleyball and diving are among the sports that already offer equal prize money to athletes. It’s great to see that British surfing is joining in.

“The English Surfing Federation is committed to give equal status to men and women in prize money, this parity is long overdue,” said Andy Sturt, chairman of the ESF.

It’s a change that has been long overdue but it is fantastic to see the UK paving the way. Let’s hope other countries take note too!