Layne Beachley

Layne Beachley is the most successful female surfer of all time, seven-time world champion retired at the end of the 2008 season. The 36-year-old from Sydney's northern beaches holds the record for most number of Tour victories with 29, but after 19 years on the road said she was ready to move on to the next phase of her life.

"I'm really proud of the impact I have had on women's surfing and I feel blessed to have been in a position to inspire a whole generation of surfers to pick up a board and experience this wonderful sport."

Men's surfing legend Kelly Slater, a nine-time world champion, was glowing in his praise of Beachley. "Layne is the greatest female surfer of all time," Slater said in a statement. She has continued to blow minds and shatter records with her surfing style, technical ability and focus. She will be missed in the surfing world."
Beachley made her debut on the World Tour at 16 and by the time she was 20, was ranked world No.6.
She won the first of six consecutive world titles in 1998, and then her seventh in 2006.
Layne Beachley’s competitive drive is now present both in and out of the water. With the launch of the Beachley Athletic brand for women (www.beachleyathletic.com.au), Layne is a budding entrepreneur; willing to learn and dedicated to success. In 2006, Layne staged the richest event in women’s surfing history; the Havaianas Beachley Classic at Manly Beach, Sydney. A huge success, the event has the NSW Government’s support for a further two years.
Media savvy and ever entertaining, Layne Beachley is regularly sought by the media for her quick wit and insight and is a great motivational speaker. Her unswerving commitment to the betterment of women’s surfing has also been felt by the ASP, pro surfing’s governing body. Away from the surf, Layne Beachley has recently launched the Layne Beachley Aim For The Stars Foundation, which aims to give girls aged 12 and up financial assistance to help them achieve their dreams. Layne is also ambassador for Unicef, Breast Cancer, Planet Ark, Club Sporanza, Day of Difference Foundation.
Whatever criteria you choose, Layne Beachley is one of Australia’s greatest athletes. Having spent two decades breaking down barriers in her chosen sport, she has also committed herself for making it easier for young women to achieve their goals in their chosen fields – provided, of course, they have the will and the work ethic.