For those who surf it isn’t merely a sport it’s a lifestyle and a community and Scotland’s wild coasts form the perfect spots for surfing all year round.
The Surf Club at the University of Stirling is breaking into its second year of catching waves. They are all about inspiring a tight knit community of people passionate about surfing and building lasting friendships. Believe me, when you’re pushing each other into waves and cheering people on as they’re shredding or falling off waves it’s a moment you’ll never want to end.
With the recent opening of Lost Shore Surf Resort near Edinburgh the club will be making the most out of Europe’s largest wave pool being so nearby.
Brig spoke to Luke, the clubs President, about the experience you’ll get in the club and hopefully to answer any questions someone hesitating to join might want to ask.
The question we hear the most is where we go surfing, being in such an inland area of Scotland:
“Usually on the east coast of Scotland, mainly Belhaven Bay (just east of Edinburgh) because it has a surf school where we can hire equipment. But we also surf all over Scotland’s coasts and even England.”
We asked him about what kind of socials the club hosts to boost the sense of community.
“We do lots of chill pub socials with a couple of drinks and pass the pigs, bonfires with s’mores and joint socials with tangentialclubs. This year we’ve already done a pumpkin carving competition and a joint bonfire and fireworks night with the Badminton Club to name a few.”
Next Luke spoke about his experience with the club.
“We inherited the club a year ago, after it being dormant, so it could be a place where we could find people to surf with. I’ve just met a lot of cool people really, it’s a very welcoming and beginner friendly club.”
“After most surfs we come back in and chat about the experience and go for a lunch together at a local pub.”
People beginning surfing may be worried about needing equipment but the club itself has some, right?
“Yes, currently we have three foam (beginner friendly) boards, and six wetsuits. But soon we’ll have six boards and six suits so when people come on trips, we have enough to give people.”
“We also have a go pro for filming footage and sharing content for everyone to see and look back at together.”
The thrill of catching a wave is unmatched and the stunning coastlines make it worth the trip. So, whether you’re mental about surfing or just looking for a chill community of like-minded people surfing would be stoked to have you!
You can find information about joining the club on the Student Union Clubs page, or on Instagram at @stiruni_surf, which also posts upcoming socials and plenty of fun videos to show off the kind of exciting outings the club does.
Featured Image Credit: Cass Roberts