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Varkala celebrated as a prominent tourist spot in Thiruvananthapuram, has bolstered its global standing through the successful conduct of a three-day international surfing festival. Hosted by Kerala Tourism at Edava Beach, this event has propelled Varkala to the forefront as a premier destination for surfing. The participation of skilled surfers and water sports enthusiasts has attracted considerable attention, further enhancing Varkala's renown.
With a total of 65 participants, hailing from both domestic and international spheres, the event marked the inaugural International Surfing Festival of the year in the country. Organized in collaboration with the International Surfing Association, Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society (KATPS), District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) and Surfing Federation of India, the festival showcased diverse talents and whipped up a lot of enthusiasm among the organizers and spectators alike.
Representing the International Surfing Association (ISA) from Australia, Rory Symes served as the Head Judge for the competitions, which were conducted daily, from 6 am to 11:30 am. The events featured contests in the Under-16 Boys and the Surfing Open categories for both men and women.
At the closing ceremony, prizes were given to the winners by Kerala Tourism Secretary, Mr Biju K., and actor-cum-surfing athlete Sudev Nair. The presence of Kerala Tourism Additional Director (General), Mr Vishnu Raj, and Kerala Tourism Deputy Director, Mr Rajeev G. L., added to the event's significance.
Kishore Kumar secured the first position in the Surfing Groms (Under-16) category, with Tain Arun and Prahlad Sriram claiming the second and third positions respectively. In the Surfing Women’s Open category, Kamali P. emerged victorious, followed by Sandhya Arun in the second place and Ishitha Malavya in the third.
In the Surfing Men’s Open category, Ramesh Mudhihal emerged as the champion, with Hareesh M. and Srikanth D. securing the second and the third prizes respectively. The closing ceremony witnessed the presence of KATPS CEO, Mr Binu Kuriakose, and representatives from the Surfing Federation of India.
This event not only affirmed Kerala's status as a premier surfing destination in the country but also showcased Varkala's potential as a global water sports hub. It provided water sports enthusiasts with a valuable opportunity to immerse themselves in the thrill of surfing and refine their skills firsthand.
