This July, the shores of Folly Beach will once again be alive with the energy and passion of female surfers from across the nation. The 22nd Annual Folly Beach Wahine Classic is set to make waves at the iconic Washout surf spot on July 27th and 28th. Known for its fun, encouraging atmosphere and empowering community, this all-female premier surf competition is free to spectate. The Classic invites competitors, their supporters, and fans to “drop in” and watch the action. Folly is the perfect spot to cheer on the talented Wahines as they showcase their skills and celebrate the spirit and strength of women in surfing.
The Wahine Classic is the longest-running girls’ surf contest on the East Coast and the only all-female competition in South Carolina. Despite what the name might suggest, the Washout is anything but. The spot is known for its iconic conditions after Hurricane Hugo “washed out” several homes and altered the land, turning it into one of the best surf destinations on the East Coast. Around two hundred and fifty surfers and their families, friends, and supporters flock to the Folly Wahine because it is much more than just a competition. It is a one-of-a-kind celebration of girl power, camaraderie, and a community of women of all ages and abilities, inspiring others to pursue their passions and learn to tackle big waves on and off the water.
This event is made possible by hundreds of volunteers—boys, girls, men, and women alike—who want to raise awareness about the poverty, social exclusion, discrimination, and violence that women face. The 2024 Classic is also partnered with the Surfrider Foundation of Charleston, the Warrior Surf Foundation, Surfers Healing, Waves for Women, and the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network. These partners, along with dozens of supporters, local and national, allow the event to operate. Showing support for the Wahine Classic benefits the Wahines in the community and the local non-profits dedicated to caring for the ocean. The event welcomes surfers of all experience levels and offers opportunities for connection at welcome check-in and a competitor’s party!
Memories of a lifetime are rarely planned, but they’re guaranteed at the 2024 Wahine Classic. You don’t have to be in the impact zone to feel the magic of this event. You can claim your spot in the line-up by donating or becoming a sponsor. The top two sponsors of this year’s event will have the incredible privilege of having the competition’s beaches named in their honor.
For more information on donating or sponsoring this event, please click here to learn more. If you are a female grom or an old pro interested in registering to compete, check out the registration page here. If you want to stay on top of the action, watch the Wahine Classic social media pages or check out the Folly Wahine Classic website! For all the out-of-town surfers looking for a place to stay, you always have a home at the Water’s Edge Inn!
