Indian Open Surfing Event Kicks Off at Tannirbhavi Eco Beach

The NMPA Indian Open of Surfing launches its seventh edition on Friday at Tannirbhavi Eco Beach. This competition is critical as over 80 surfers from six Indian states gear up for the sport's inaugural appearance at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games later this year.

Prominent Indian surfers showcasing their skills include Ramesh Budihal and Shivaraj Babu, heralding the event as a premier platform for them. Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Goa have representatives in the men's and women's categories, as well as junior divisions.

Organized by the Mantra Surf Club and Surfing Swami Foundation under the Surfing Federation of India's guidance, this championship is the second in the National Championship Series. The previous event was the Little Andaman Pro.

Among the athletes to watch is Ramesh Budihal, who recently reached the Open Men's final at the Asian Surfing Championships in Mahabalipuram, earning a bronze. Shivaraj Babu, another top contender, clinched the Men's Open title at the Little Andaman Pro event earlier this year.

(With inputs from agencies.)