64-Year-Old Breaks Barriers: Learning to Surf and Defying Stereotypes

Kerrie Houston Reightley, a 64-year-old writer and substitute teacher, has embraced a new challenge by taking up surfing, proving that age is no barrier to adventure. Three years ago, while vacationing in Maui, Hawaii, she decided to learn to surf after spotting the various water activities available. Despite her athletic background, mastering the waves proved to be a tougher challenge than expected.

Undeterred by initial setbacks and countless "crashing and burning" moments, Houston Reightley's competitive spirit kept her determined. Her athletic prowess, cultivated by her father, a towering figure in the Seattle sports scene, fueled her commitment to conquering the waves. Even after her first attempt in Hawaii left her unable to stand on the board, she made a vow to return.

Months later, in Sayulita, Mexico, armed with a psychological edge, she sought redemption. Booking a private instructor and braving faster waves, Houston Reightley overcame her fear and successfully stood up on the board. Her tenacity paid off, capturing a triumphant moment in a photograph that now symbolizes her surfing victory.

For Houston Reightley, competition has been a form of meditation and resilience. In the face of personal tragedy a decade ago when she lost her younger brother to cancer, she turned to sports to cope, training for a triathlon. Raised in a family that resembled its own tennis club, she has been playing on tennis teams for 52 years, attributing her mental and physical well-being to a life filled with sports.

Now, as she plans surfing trips to Bali and British Columbia, Houston Reightley challenges societal norms by advocating for a more inclusive representation of older women in sports. She points out the lack of images showcasing women in their 60s participating in physical activities, urging a shift in perception. As she continues to break stereotypes and pursue her passion, Houston Reightley's story serves as an inspiration for those seeking new adventures at any age.

Reference:

www.theguardian.com