Participants > Panelists > Davey Lane

I would like to submit a collection of published articles and documentaries that I began writing while traveling and competing on the World Tour of Surfing in 1999-2000. The articles were written during a revolutionary era of women's surfing when nā wahine (women) were demanding to be recognized and represented through the various male dominated venues including surf magazines, surfing apparel brands and surfing competition. There are a variety of articles including coverage of international surfing events, individual profiles and surf news which can be reviewed on the journalism section of my website at www.LaneDavey.com. The collection offers some important insights into female sports journalism. This position entitles women to a voice along with a realm of authority to discuss topics that were formerly only acceptable from the perspectives of male athletes. An academic paper will accompany the collection noting specific portions of the articles that emphasize female objectification and sexism especially as it relates to the media. Recent research by Dr. Paul Cook from Northumbria University offers a full study of such issues in relationship with surfing apparel brands. This paper will focus on the way surfing's sub culture has the ability to transcend international boundaries and gender stereotypes. It is also important to consider the challenges of women in male dominated sports. How do women in such sub cultures maintain their place and respect among the men while still creating more opportunity for other women? Is feminism effective in such circles or does it have the potential to fracture the female's ties to the male group which functions as their greatest support system? The conclusion will mediate between the struggle of being one of da boyz and us girls that is evident throughout the various articles in my collection. I would also like to present my articles and paper at the conference as a panelist.