The Surfing Federation of India (SFI), the governing body overseeing surfing and stand-up paddling in the nation, has disclosed the itinerary for the much-anticipated fifth edition of the Indian Open Surfing (IOS). Endorsed by the International Surfing Association, this esteemed surfing competition is set to be hosted by the Mantra Surf Club at the serene Sasihithlu Beach in Mangalore, Karnataka, running from May 31 to June 2.
Over the course of three days, the competition will witness the participation of India’s top-ranked surfers. Continuously extending support, the Karnataka government has pledged its backing to the event for the fifth consecutive year. Contestants will vie for victory across four categories: men’s open, women’s open, groms (U-16) boys, and groms (U-16) girls.
Marking the second stop of the national championship series for the 2024 calendar year, following the International Surfing Festival Kerala 2024 held in March at Varkala’s scenic cliff beach, the IOS is expected to ignite fierce competition between surfers from the east and west coasts. These championships carry substantial ranking points crucial in determining surfers’ standings by season’s end.
Expressing support for the event, Mullai Muhilan, Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada, commended the efforts of the organisers in showcasing the state’s lesser-explored coastal gems, which bolster the region’s tourism economy.
Arun Vasu, president of the Surfing Federation of India, reiterated the federation’s ambition to elevate India’s standing in the global surfing community. He expressed satisfaction at commencing the National Series in Kerala and eagerly anticipated continuing the championships in Mangaluru before progressing to the East Coast.
Highlighted as ones to watch in the men’s category are surfers Ramesh Budihal, Harish M, Srikanth D, and Manikandan M, who demonstrated remarkable prowess in the recent national championship in Kerala. Meanwhile, in the women’s category, attention is drawn to Kamali Moorthy, Srishthi Selvam, and Sandhya Arun, all vying for top honors. Teenage sensation Kishore Kumar is expected to capture the spotlight following his outstanding performances.
Rammohan Paranjape, Vice President of SFI and Director of Mantra Surf Club, expressed optimism for a strong turnout of top surfers and anticipated a closely contested battle among the best. Reflecting on past editions, Paranjape anticipated exhilarating action, fueled by tight finishes and the hope for optimal weather conditions.
In the previous championship, Ramesh Budihal and Kamali P secured victory in the men’s and women’s Open categories, respectively, while Kishore Kumar clinched the groms 16 and under boys with an impressive score of 14.73.
