5 questions with... Dani Robertson
Be inspired this Christmas! Read all about Dani, the second cold water woman to be featured in our #ColdWaterWomenSeries of interviews…
#COLDWATERWOMENSERIES
If there’s anyone lifting women to the surface of surfing, it’s our friend Dani. Recently shortlisted for the Sunday Times Sports Woman of the Year Grassroots award, she’s the founder of Surf Senioritas; a rapidly expanding community of women with a love for the sea. With over three thousand Facebook members, female empowerment is at its heart, and we’re very proud to be part of it. Find out more about this real-life Lesley Knope…
1. Hey, Dani! Thanks for taking time out of all your activities to speak to us! Can you tell people a bit more about you and Surf Senioritas?
Well, I’m the Co-Founder of Surf Senioritas, an online community for sea-loving women everywhere. We work hard to address inequalities for women both in and out of the waves, and we’re not afraid to let our voices be heard. Communities have always been at the heart of my work throughout Wales and the rest of the UK. In my previous job I worked with young people using surf therapy as a way to combat anxiety. I’m extremely passionate about creating spaces and opportunities for people to access the power of nature for physical and mental wellbeing.
2. How did you first get into all of this?
I grew up on the wild west coast of Ynys Môn in Wales. As an islander, salt water naturally runs through my veins. I spent years watching surfers before I could afford my own kit. It wasn’t until I received my magical student loan that I began my surfing journey…
“It’s humbling and awe inspiring to feel the force of nature. It’s not only helped me through PTSD, but it’s also helped me celebrate the good times too.”
3. And now, what does being a cold water surfer mean to you?
Everything. It’s empowering. It reminds me of my place in the Universe as a small human being, whilst simultaneously reminding me I’m privileged to have a body that allows me to surf. It’s humbling and awe inspiring to feel the force of nature. It’s not only helped me through PTSD, but it’s also helped me celebrate the good times too.
4.What are your favourite spots?
The mighty Av! Port Talbot’s finest. There’s something surreal about surfing in the shadow of an industrial giant.
5. Tell us about your strategic winter surf routine?
Pre-surf, I get in my suit at home. The less time I have to think about how cold it’s going to be, the better. I prepare two hot water bottles and wrap my Robie around one and my clothes around another. I also plait my hair as tight as possible to keep it out the way of my hood which does give my cranium a very attractive shilouette (cone head). Post-surf I take out my trug (big bucket) and the hot water bottle from my towel. I get the boots off then stand in my bucket and pour my first hot water bottle over myself. The hot water gathers in the tub, keeping you warm while you wrestle out of your suit. You also get to rinse your suit in it! Then your clothes are toasty warm from the second hot water bottle, ready for you to wear. Plus you have another bottle to keep you warm on the drive home!
Want to be a Seniorita and make friends you’ll surf with for the rest of your life?
Like the Surf Senioritas Facebook page, join the group & follow on Instagram.
The Surf Senioritas Academy - Porthcawl, Wales. Photo Credit: Chrissie Baldwin (@makingwavesglobal)