As you know, Surf Maroc is a big advocate for female surfers and getting girls out on the board. And we’re so proud to be supporting female Moroccan surf champion, Meryem El Gardoum, who’s competing this weekend at the Moroccan Championship Finals in Casablanca.
Meryem grew up just down the road in Tamraght. She started surfing when she was just 11 after watching other surfers on the beach. Coming from the local area, she’s a rare sight as a local Moroccan girl surfing and shredding the waves at our main spots. That’s something we want to see more of in our waters!
As a shortboard surfer, her dream is to become the first female to represent Morocco in the Women’s World Surf League. By taking part in international competitions and ranking as Morocco’s number 1 female surfer, she’s making great strides towards reaching that goal. Speaking to Pri.org, Meryem tells us “people all over the world think there aren’t girl surfers in Morocco. That’s why I want one or two girls in the World Surf League – to tell everyone that, ‘Yeah, there are girl surfers in Morocco.’ That’s what I want to say.”
This weekend all eyes are on Meryem at the Moroccan Championship Finals. We’re super excited for her to be in this final, and can’t wait to see how she gets on! Follow her progress live here this afternoon and tomorrow afternoon. And of course, follow our Instagram for live story updates!
Good luck Meryem!
You can join Meryem and other girl surfers in the water by joining one of our Girls Surf Maroc weeks! And don’t forget to stay up to date with all Surf Maroc news
Photo credit: Mary Mathis