TEAM NEWS: AN INTERVIEW WITH AVA SEGERSTEN

Meet the latest talent to enter the GONG Team.

Driven by her enthusiasm for our sports and her desire to share the stoke, Ava Segersten is joining forces with GONG. The 20-year-old American sat down with us to talk about her passion for watersports, her projects, and the mindset she brings as she steps into a prestigious team.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi, I’m Ava Segersten, a professional wingfoiler who loves pushing progression in the sport while sharing the journey through content and competition.

When and how did you get into board sports?

I grew up in Madison, Wisconsin surrounded by lakes, and got into board sports at a young age. Being on the water quickly became a huge part of my life and eventually led me into foiling and winging.

What got you hooked? Is it the sensations, the environment, the vibe?

Definitely all of it. The feeling of flying above the water is addictive, but the environment and the community around the sport makes it even more special.

Wing foiler: Ava, GONG team rider, on the HIPE Pro 2026 with a Droid Aramid, HM85 mast, V3 Fluid front wing and Ypra Surf-Freestyle stab.

What place do you call your home spot? How are the conditions there?

My home spot is Madison, Wisconsin, but I don’t spend much time there since I started winging. Which is why I would consider my winging home spot La Ventana, Mexico. That was where it all really began for me. The conditions are usually a steady 20 knots and some sick kickers, which makes it a great place to train and push progression.

How does a perfect day on the water look for you?

Good wind, a fun crew of friends, and a session where I’m pushing myself and learning something new.

Wing foiler: Ava, GONG team rider, on the HIPE Like 2026 with Carbon Mix paddle.

Who’s your biggest influence in the sport?

I’m inspired by the riders who keep pushing progression and creativity in the sport.

When was your first competition and how did it go?

My first competition was in Ibiraquera, 2024. It did not go as expected. At the end of my first heat I tried something I’ve never done, and it ended with me breaking my foot. Although I didn’t have the best outcome, I learned so much from that experience, which really motivated me to keep progressing.

What’s your goal in competition?

To keep progressing my riding, perform at my best, and keep improving with every event.

What’s your main focus right now, competition or content?

Both. I would love to compete this year, and I’m also really passionate about creating content that shares the sport and inspires people to get on the water.

Wing foiler: Ava, GONG team rider, on the HIPE Pro 2026 with a Droid Aramid, HM85 mast, V3 Ypra Freestyle foil.

What type of sessions motivate you the most right now? Any tricks you’re working on?

Progression sessions where I’m pushing new tricks and combinations. Right now I’m focused on dialing in my front flips and making them more consistent.

What motivated you to join the GONG team?

GONG’s commitment to innovation and progression really stood out to me. I’m excited to be part of a team that’s constantly pushing the sport forward.

Which GONG gear are you most excited about?

I’m especially excited about riding the latest GONG wing and foil setups and continuing to push what’s possible on the water.

What’s your next trip or competition?

I’m currently in France to discover the GONG GALAXY center and meet the rest of the team. The welcome has been really great. From here, I’m heading to Tarifa to train in freestyle.