Mangaluru :

Panambur Beach in Mangaluru will witness Indian Open of Surfing (IOS), national surfing event by Surfing Federation of India (SFI), from May 29 to 31.

International surfers from Australia and cricketer Jonty Rhodes, who is the International Surfing Ambassador of India, are expected to take part as judges for the event. IOS is being organised for the first time in Karnataka. More than 100 surfers from various states of the nation are expected to take part in four categories of Stand up Paddle Board surfing championship to be held in three days. Added attraction during the event will be demonstrations on kite surfing and wind surfing by expert surfers of SFI.

SFI vice-president Ram Mohan Paranjape said that the IOS event will be held in association with Karnataka tourism department, Dakshina Kannada district administration, Panambur Beach Tourism Development Project (PBTDP), Mantra Surf Club of Mulky, New Mangalore Port Trust and corporate sponsors. “We have made a presentation to tourism minister R V Deshpande and he has agreed to provide government support. Main objectives of SFI are promoting surfing and thereby provide platform for young talents. Surfing will be held in four categories – under 16 years, 17 – 22 years, 23 – 28 years and above 28,” he said.

While it will require nearly Rs 25 lakh for the conduct of the event, Rs 6 lakh will be reserved for prize money for winners in all categories, Ram said. “We will make all necessary arrangements including transportation, food and accommodation for surfers and judges during their stay in Mangaluru. All necessary arrangements will also be made to take care of the safety aspects of surfers. Lifeguards, on spot medical team, ambulance and professional surfers will be deputed for the safety of surfers,” he added.

Deputy commissioner A B Ibrahim said the district administration will extend all support for the success of the event.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> City> Mangalore / by Vinobha K T, TNN / March 30th, 2015