The Story of Ray-Board™
Ray-Board was designed by Norah Kolb, a high school student in Connecticut. Norah swims competitively for her high school team and the local USA-Swimming team. Her long hours in the pool led to shoulder pain, and she would often swim kicking sets on her back. At one point she was icing her shoulder daily and going to the physical therapist twice a week. She knew there had to be a better way to kick.
Ray-Board started as an idea for my 8th-grade Invention Convention school project. I made prototypes out of foam insulation and had friends on my swim team try it. I won the ESPN award for best sports related invention and presented at the National Invention Convention at the Henry Ford Museum.
My parents suggested that I enter a local “Shark Tank” like pitch event. I was selected from 80 applicants to present at the live event and won $12K to fund more prototypes.
I used the funding to build prototypes of different shapes and materials. The 3-D shape made it difficult to manufacture, but I worked with several suppliers to produce a great quality product. I continue to get feedback from swimmers of all ages and abilities.
After several years of work, Ray-Board is ready for you to enjoy. Thanks for your support and purchases. I hope that Ray-Board will encourage you to get in the pool.
Special Thanks to the following organizations for their help along the way.
