Meet Ash: A Life Lived on the Water
Ash has been on the water since before she could walk, growing up with parents who instilled in her a love for waterskiing and the river lifestyle. Now, as an adult, her passion for watersports has only deepened, whether she’s mastering kneeboard tricks or exploring new waters on her SUP. For Ash, the water isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life.
Journey Beginnings: Where it All Started
Ash’s love for watersports began at just four years old, when she first got on a kneeboard. Her family would spend holidays by the river, and Ash fondly remembers watching the older kids slalom ski, wakeboard, and kneeboard, eager to join them. That spark grew into a lifelong passion for watersports.
“I remember my first kneeboard at about four years of age, watching the older kids and wanting to copy everything they did,” Ash recalls. Little did she know that this would be the start of a thrilling journey on the water.
Jobe Experience: The Gear that Fuels the Fun
Ash uses a variety of Jobe products to elevate her watersports adventures. Her go-to kneeboard is the Jobe Aurora, which is perfect for both solo riding and going doubles with friends. When it comes to tricks and jumps, Ash prefers the Jobe Stage or Prophecy kneeboards, which give her the pop she needs to get air off the wake.
But it’s not just about kneeboarding. Ash is also an avid slalom skier, and her favorite is the Jobe Esprit Slalom Ski, perfect for carving up the glassy water during early morning or late afternoon sessions. And when South Australia’s floods put a pause on her waterskiing, Ash turned to her Jobe YARRA SUP, an essential addition for exploring beaches and hidden reserves.
Of course, safety is key for Ash, so she always relies on her Jobe lifejacket, a must-have for any watersports adventure.
How Jobe Products Enhance Ash’s Experience
Jobe products have allowed Ash to share her love of watersports with friends and family, creating unforgettable memories along the way. “Jobe products are top quality, with cool colors and graphics to match their durability. Every summer, I can’t wait to get back on the water and use my Jobe gear to its fullest,” Ash says.
Memorable Moments on the Water
One of Ash’s proudest moments was when Jobe reached out to her after hearing about her kneeboarding achievements. As the first female to land a wake-to-wake backroll on a kneeboard, Ash realised she could be a role model for women in watersports.
“I’ve always believed that anything the guys can do, I can do too. It was amazing to know I could help promote watersports for women and girls, encouraging them to get involved. Being able to teach and advise others, especially young girls, has been incredibly fulfilling,” she explains.
What Ash Appreciates Most About Jobe Products
As a kneeboarder, Ash values the aero seat and comfy padding on Jobe boards, which have made a huge difference, especially after her ACL injury. The design takes the pressure off her ankles and back, allowing her to return to kneeboarding comfortably.
“Many people think kneeboarding is too hard on the knees and back, but the aero seat really changes that. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants to keep riding without the discomfort,” she shares.
Motivational Advice for Beginners
Ash’s advice for anyone starting out in watersports is simple: “If you’re not falling off, you’re not trying hard enough! Crashing is part of the fun.” Her positive attitude encourages newcomers to embrace the learning process and enjoy the ride.
Preparation and Rituals: Getting Ready for the Water
Ash keeps her preparation for a day on the water laid-back and fun. “It’s all about grabbing your mates, loading up the ski gear into the boat, packing some snacks and drinks, and heading out. No need for a strict routine, just good times on the water!”
Inspiration and Growth
For Ash, watersports are more than just an activity—they’re a lifestyle. “There’s something so calming and fulfilling about being on the water, whether I’m SUP paddling or waterskiing. The lifestyle that comes with watersports is all about relaxation, fun, and sharing those experiences with others. It’s brought me so much personal growth and joy, and I’m grateful to be part of such a welcoming community.”
Ash’s journey in watersports is a testament to her passion and resilience. From pushing boundaries in kneeboarding to being an advocate for women in watersports, she continues to inspire others to get out on the water and enjoy the thrill.