Watch: World Champion Diver Challenges Austria Waterpark's 'Men-Only' Slide

An 11-time world champion diver from Australia went on a waterslide that reportedly did not allow women to ride it. Rhiannan Iffland, an experienced watersports professional, took on the challenge of riding a men-only waterslide at the AREA 47 - Tirol amusement park in Austria, reportedly known as one of the fastest slides in Europe. However, soon, the waterpark was accused of sexism for not allowing women on the adventure slide. 

Waterpark Responds To Sexism Accusations

The waterpark in Austria is known for boasting one of the fastest waterslides in Europe and reportedly prohibits women from riding it. The park was subjected to allegations of sexism against women after Rhiannan Iffland's viral video titled, 'Here for a good time, not a long time. Another YOLO moment...'

In her video, Iffland was heard saying "Apparently women are not supposed to do this slide," pointing to the 'no women' sign before proceeding to ride it. it. This bold move brought attention to the gender-based restrictions at the waterpark, which later responded to the sexism accusations. 

A spokesperson for the waterpark explained the reason behind the restriction of women on the slide. They stated that while the park initially did not intend to create such a prohibition, they noticed a significant increase in women facing tragic accidents, leading them to take the 'difficult decision'.

A study found in the National Library of Medicine notes that "water under high pressure can produce vaginal injury", which is likely the reason behind the warning sign.

"We consulted with doctors, authorities, and the manufacturer of the slide. This led to a difficult decision: either disassemble the water slide or restrict its use to men only, as it stands now... Our highest priority is ensuring the safety and happiness of all our guests, regardless of gender,” the spokesperson said. 

They added, "The risks for women using this slide were tragically highlighted a few years ago,” citing an incident in the Canary Islands “when a woman was severely injured on a similar slide.” They emphasised, “AREA 47 is not misogynistic. Approximately 50% of our team members and 60% of our management team are female."