The phrase “hitting the waves” conjures images of sun-bleached and tanned surfer dudes and gals paddling out to catch the big one in Hawaii or Malibu. Sean Penn’s Jeff Spicoli in Fast Times at Ridgemont High or Patrick Swayze’s Bodhi in Point Break famously come to mind. Although Swayze was an avid horseman before he passed away, we doubt he ever tried the latest extreme version of the water sport: horse surfing.
Yes, you heard that correctly; it’s where a surfer catches the wave while been pulled through the water by a horse and rider at full gallop (think skijoring, but on the water). According to the magazine Surfer Today, the surfer rides either a traditional surfboard, kiteboard, skimboard or wakeboard. The tow rope is attached to what is described as a “custom saddle” and then the surfer is pulled along near the shoreline.
And in case you don’t live near the ocean, you can compete on dry land, too. (HorseboardingUK Facebook)
Apparently the sport is also known as “horse boarding” and is considered to be a modern version of chariot racing with speeds upwards of 50 km/hour. Once “on board,” surfers can practice tricks. And they don’t have to know how to ride (although Riding 101 and a helmet is highly recommended when being dragged by a horse at full speed). For fans of the sport who don’t live near the water, there are boards specially designed with wheels for being towed on turf instead of surf.