Scottish Surfing has today announced the launch of its pioneering new strategy, ‘Positively Impacting Lives Through Surfing’, marking an historic moment for the sport in Scotland.
Unveiled in the organisation’s 50th anniversary year, this strategy—the first of its kind for Scottish surfing—sets out an ambitious two-year roadmap aimed at expanding participation, fostering community growth and enhancing the impact of the sport on people’s lives.
The launch comes in the wake of the November 2024 opening of Lost Shore Surf Resort, Scotland’s premier inland wave facility, which is set to serve as a National Performance Centre. With the recent confirmation of surfing’s permanent inclusion in the Summer Olympics, the sport in Scotland stands on the cusp of a transformative new era.
Five times Scottish National Champion Phoebe Strachan welcomed its production:
“Scottish Surfing has come a long way from our origins back in 1975. It is great to see our first strategy clarifying our development pathways and priorities, focusing on improving the standard of surfing in Scotland. Exciting times ahead!”
A Vision for the Future
Scottish Surfing Chair William Watson highlighted the significance of the strategy, stating:
“This strategy reflects our long-term vision for surfing in Scotland and outlines the rapid progress we expect in just two years. The growth in engagement, progression and community development will be unprecedented.”
“While this is our first formal strategy, we owe everything to the pioneers who paved the way for Scottish surfing. Their spirit of adventure and determination lives on in our community today. This strategy builds on that legacy, embracing the aspirations of the surfers we serve.”
A Sport That Changes Lives
Scottish Surfing CEO Paul Stark emphasised the sport’s profound impact on mental and physical well-being:
“Research clearly shows that surfing delivers a wealth of health benefits, both physically and mentally. Our goal is to make these benefits accessible to as many people as possible, ensuring that surfing becomes a powerful force for positive change.”
“This strategy defines our dual role as a governing body and a charitable organisation. But at its heart, our mission is simple—to transform lives through the power of surfing.”
With Scotland’s surf scene set for unprecedented growth, this strategy represents a bold step towards a future where more people than ever can experience the thrill, community and life-changing benefits of the sport.
The full strategy can be accessed here:
https://scottishsurfing.scot/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Scottish-Surfing-Strategy-2024-26.pdf