INTERNATIONAL SURF OPEN – TAMILNADU ANNOUNCED -First time ever in India 10 a Wild Cards for National surfers

Chennai, 18^th April 2023:

The Government of Tamil Nadu – Ministry for Sport and the Tamil Nadu Surfing Association (TNSA), under the auspices of the Surfing Federation of India (SFI), are proud to announce, for the first time ever in India, the International Surf Open-Tamilnadu, a WSL (World Surfing League) QS 3000 surfing event which will be held in the historic town of Mamallapuramfrom the 14^th to the 20^th of August 2023. 

Speaking on the Occasion, Mr.Udayanidhi Stalin, Hon.Minister of sports opined “Tamil Nadu has consistently been at the forefront of sports development in India, fostering a rich legacy across a multitude of disciplines. Our state boasts exceptional talent in hockey, kabaddi, cricket, tennis, squash, volleyball, fencing, chess to name a few, and is solidifying its distinguished presence on both national and international stages.

In recent years, we have spearheaded the promotion of surfing—a sport that has experienced significant growth in global recognition and popularity. By hosting esteemed international competitions and cultivating local talent, we are reinforcing our status as a capital for surfing and stand-up paddleboarding.

Surfing being an Olympic sport has become a priority in our pursuit of Olympic quest . This international tournament offers a remarkable platform for our surfers to demonstrate their abilities and bring pride to our nation. As home to the top national surfing champions, Tamil Nadu is determined to secure a medal at the 2028 Olympic Games.

In order to realize this ambitious objective, we pledge to deliver cutting-edge facilities, infrastructure, and dedicated coaching and training programs for our surfers. Furthermore, we will engage with international experts to augment the performance levels of our athletes.

Let us join together in celebrating Tamil Nadu’s rich and diverse sporting culture and support our sports persons on their path to Olympic triumph. Through collaboration, passion, and persistence, we will nurture an environment in which sports can flourish and our Youth can achieve their highest potential. I extend my gratitude to the Surfing Federation of India and the Surf Association of Tamil Nadu for bringing this premier event to Mahabalipuram. Under the guidance of our Hon’ble Chief Minister, the state government will spare no effort in ensuring the event’s grand success. “

Elated with the support from the TamilNadu Government, Mr.Arun Vasu, President, TNSA and SFI said “The TNSA would like to thank the Tamil Nadu Government, The Honorable Sports Minister, Secretary of Sports, and the Member Secretary for their generous support and sponsorship in bringing this prestigious world class event to Tamil Nadu. What started as a drop in the ocean 10 years ago in Kovalam,TN, has now put Tamilnadu and India on the world map for surfing. Our focus in the next 5 years will be to train promising young kids and establish India as a force to reckon with on the world surfing scene.”