India’s first national Surfing and Stand up Paddle competition started in the beautiful beaches of Kovalam with former South African cricketing star Jhonty Rhodes and the most applauded fielder in the cricketing arena inaugurating it on the 3rd of May. Inaugurating the country’s first national surfing competition in Kerala’s Kovalam beach, Jhonty was seen enjoying surfing along with the rest of the participants which is going to end today.
The eminent South African fieldsman Jonty Rhodes proved on the beach of Kovalam that he is well adept on a surf board. With this new venture, Kovalam is expected to gain a place among the surfing locations globally.
The Spice Coast Open 2013 is being held by the Surfing Federation of India and will feature surfing and standup paddleboarding competitions.
Rhodes has commented that, As india has got long coastline and excellent beaches like kovalam, this is a chance for India to get its youngsters interested in a sport that is thrilling and fun, and keeps you healthy and fit.
Surfers from France, Belgium, the US and Brazil has taken part in the competition, and were judged by surfers from Thailand. The contest was open to all age groups – under 16, under 22, under 28 and 28 and above. About 100 participants from state surfing associations, clubs, surf schools and enthusiasts from around the country and abroad had taken part in the event.
The event organised by the Surfing Federation of India, it is the governing body for surfing in India and recognised by the International Surfing Association.
Spice Coast Open prizes include rolling trophies and cash awards, consolation prizes and certificates.
Workshops and introductory classes on surfing and standup paddle has been held for people to enjoy the sport of surfing. There were screenings of water and surf films a photo exhibition, and other beach programmes for visitors.
Surfing Federation of India – http://www.surfingfederationofindia.org/
Surfing in India – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surfing_in_India