Point Break

SURF'S ALWAYS UP IN MUIZENBERG WHERE EMMA HORNER, KIRSTIE DUNCAN AND TEAM BACKLINE BABES ARE CATCHING WAVES. HERE'S THE STORY BEHIND THIS LOCAL SURFING COMMUNITY.

What started as a shared fondness for adventure by the seaside, grew into a community of 600 women in a few short months! Surfing community Backline Babes was founded in 2020 and has since become a pivotal part of many women's lives. For some, it's a healthy escape from everyday life, but for most, it's nurtured new friendships, camaraderie between women and, most of all, offers a platform to catch good waves and good vibes!

Getting to know the Backline Babes

What ignited your interest, and now passion, for surfing?

Emma: I have always been an adventurous person who loves the ocean. My partner taught me how to surf a few years ago and from day one I was hooked and never looked back. The love I have for surfing is indescribable.

Kirstie: I started surfing when I was in pre-primary school, but drifted away from it in high school. When Em and I became close, though, I started surfing with her and her partner. I then realised how much I missed it and this reignited my passion.

WHAT SPARKED THE IDEA TO START BACKLINE BABES?

Emma: I was just learning how to surf and felt intimidated paddling out to the backline when surfing alone. I came up with the idea to start an Instagram account for other girls to join us and Kirstie came up with the idea to form a WhatsApp group. We thought we would get five to 10 girls to come with us, but within a couple of months, Backline Babes grew into a community of more than 600 incredible women!

KIRSTIE, HOW DID YOU BECOME A CO-FOUNDER?

The rapid growth of such an amazing community really was unexpected for both Em and me.

I started out only consulting with Em here and there, and this soon turned into weekly meetings after hours with lots of laughs, strategy sessions and plenty of G&T's!