Expressnews
Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, September 30th 2025: –Ariyaman Beach will come alive from 3rd to 5th October 2025as Tamil Nadu Tourism proudly presents the WatersportsFestival 2025, headlined by the Palkbay SUP Challenge 2025, India’s flagship National Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Championship Series event.
In association with the Surfing Federation of India, the three-day festival will feature India’s top athletes competing in sprint, distance, and technical SUP races, alongside fun races in surf ski kayaking and beach flag sprints. With prize money and national ranking points at stake, the Palkbay SUP Challenge is a defining moment for the sport in India.
Beyond competition, the festival highlights Tamil Nadu’s growing reputation as a hub for adventure and water-based tourism. “This festival puts Ariyaman Beach and the Palk Bay region on the map as a leading destination for watersports in India,” said Mr. Arun Vasu, President of the Surfing Federation of India.
One of the most inspiring stories this year comes from youth of the host village, trained by ISA SUP Coach and Course Presenter Jehan Driver through the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation. These first-generation paddlers will compete alongside seasoned national champions — a testament to the sport’s growing inclusivity and grassroots reach.
“This is more than a race — it’s a story of opportunity,” said Jehan. “To see coastal youth transform into national-level athletes within their own waters is the true legacy of this festival.”
Ramanad Youth to Compete in Palkbay SUP Challenge 2025: Alongside elite racers from across India, the Ramanadyouth will paddle in front of their families and community, proving that the future of Indian watersports is as much about grassroots empowerment as it is about podium finishes.
The Palkbay SUP Challenge 2025 runs from 3rd to 5th October 2025 as part of the Watersports Festival hosted by Tamil Nadu Tourism and organised by the Surfing Federation of India.
The event is expected to attract national media, regional sports outlets, and adventure tourism enthusiasts, delivering strong visibility for sponsors and partners.
● Tamil Nadu Tourism Festival showcase at Ariyaman Beach
● National Stand Up Paddle Championship sanctioned by Surfing Federation of India
● Youth athletes from host village debuting at national level
● Prize money and trophies across multiple categories
● Fun races & community events open to all visitors
Watersports Festival 2025 at Ariyaman featuring PalkbaySUP Challenge 2025
3rd – 5th October | Ariyaman Beach, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu Tourism with the Surfing Federation of India, will host the Watersports Festival 2025 at Ariyaman Beach this October.
The highlight of the festival is the Palkbay SUP Challenge 2025, a National Stand Up Paddle Championship event bringing India’s top paddlers to compete in sprint, distance, and technical races. The event also features fun races in surf ski kayaking and beach flag sprints, open to all.
A unique highlight this year is the participation of youth from the host district.
Tamil Nadu Tourism
About Tamil Nadu Tourism
Tamil Nadu Tourism is one of India’s most dynamic state tourism boards, showcasing the state’s rich heritage, cultural legacy, and natural beauty. With a focus on developing sustainable and adventure tourism, Tamil Nadu Tourism is leading the way in positioning the state as a hub for watersports, eco-tourism, and unique visitor experiences across its extensive coastline.
About the Surfing Federation of India
The Surfing Federation of India (SFI) is the national governing body for surfing and stand up paddle (SUP) in India, recognisedfor setting standards, conducting training, and organisingnational championships. With a vision to develop surfing and SUP as mainstream sports in India, SFI actively works on athlete development, coaching, and grassroots programs across the country.
For More Information:
Website: www.supchallenge.in
📌 Media Contact at location:
Mr. Jehan Hoshi Driver
General Secretary, Surfing Federation of India
📞 +91 98203 67412 | 📧 [email protected]
For further information, please contact:
Red Consulting
Sunita / Kamal / Salman
9841234535 / 9840420108 / 9884910721
Watersports Festival 2025 at Ariyaman
Featuring the Palkbay SUP Challenge 2025
📍 Location: Ariyaman Beach, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu
📅 Dates: 3rd – 5th October 2025
🏄 Highlight: National Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Championship
Event Overview
Tamil Nadu Tourism, in partnership with the Surfing Federation of India, presents the Watersports Festival 2025. The festival will host the Palkbay SUP Challenge 2025, a national championship event featuring India’s top athletes in sprint, distance, and technical SUP races, alongside fun races for all.
● SUP Sprint (200m)
● SUP Distance (10 km)
● SUP Technical (short course with turns)
● Fun Races: Surf Ski Kayak, Beach Flag Sprint
Prize Money & Trophies: As per Notice of Race (supchallenge.in)
● National SUP Championship sanctioned by SFI
● Hosted by Tamil Nadu Tourism as a festival showcase
● Village youth athletes debuting on national stage (trained by ISA Coach Jehan Driver through Ocean Ambassadors Foundation)
● Strong tourism & community engagement focus
