Why Was the Indian Open of Surfing Canceled on Day One?

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Why Was the Indian Open of Surfing Canceled on Day One?

Synopsis

The inaugural day of the 6th NMPA Indian Open of Surfing was canceled due to severe weather conditions, impacting participants and spectators alike. Organizers remain hopeful for improved conditions, aiming to resume competitions soon.

Key Takeaways

  • First day of the event canceled due to severe weather.
  • Safety of participants is the top priority.
  • Hopeful for improved conditions on Day Two.
  • Over 50 competitors expected to participate across categories.
  • Event has been relocated to Tannirbhavi Eco Beach.

Mangaluru, May 30 (NationPress) The inaugural day of the 6th NMPA Indian Open of Surfing, set to unfold at Tannirbhavi Eco Beach, was unfortunately canceled on Friday due to intense rainfall and hazardous sea conditions caused by the early arrival of monsoon and cyclonic disturbances in the Arabian Sea.

Upon assessing the conditions early in the morning, it was determined that the high swells and unpredictable wave patterns greatly surpassed safe competition levels. Consequently, the organizers, including the Surfing Federation of India, Mantra Surf Club, and Surfing Swami Foundation, made the prudent call to postpone the day's activities.

This three-day elite surfing event represents the second stop of the National Surfing Championship Series 2025, organized by Surfing Swami Foundation and hosted by Mantra Surf Club under the governing body of the Surfing Federation of India.

Earlier this week, anticipating unfavorable weather, the organizing committee made the decision to relocate the event from Sasihithlu Beach to Tannirbhavi Eco Beach.

Despite the change in venue, the weather remained uncooperative, with relentless heavy rainfall preventing any competitive events from taking place on Day One, even at the new location.

On Day Two, over 50 leading surfers, including Ramesh Budhial, Kishore Kumar, Ajeesh Ali, Harish Muthu, Kamali P., Shrishti Selvam, and Sinchana Gowda, are set to compete across four categories: Men’s Open, Women’s Open, Groms (U-16) Boys, and Groms (U-16) Girls.

“All participants arrived at the venue by 8 a.m. this morning, marking the start of Day One of the event. The weather unfolded as predicted, with heavy rain but little wind. Despite the adverse conditions, we effectively utilized the day for participant registration and the distribution of event kits, including t-shirts and access bands.

“A comprehensive surfers’ briefing followed, where participants were oriented to the venue and given an overview of the schedule and expectations for the upcoming days. Although today’s weather limited activities, we are hopeful that tomorrow will bring better conditions, allowing us to initiate competitive sessions on the water,” stated Rammohan Paranjape, Vice President of the Surfing Federation of India.

“Today’s conditions were extremely challenging. After a thorough evaluation, we determined that the sea was too turbulent, and the intervals between waves were too brief, making it perilous for surfers to paddle out safely. Additionally, sporadic rain significantly decreased visibility. In light of these factors, we opted to cancel today’s session for safety reasons. Fortunately, tomorrow’s forecast appears more favorable, and we hope to proceed as planned,” noted Nawaz Jabbar, Contest Director.

The NMPA Indian Open of Surfing is proudly supported by Karnataka Tourism and the New Mangalore Port Authority.

Point of View

I recognize the importance of safety in sports. While the cancellation of the first day was disappointing for many, prioritizing the well-being of athletes is paramount. We remain committed to bringing our audience updates as the situation develops.
NationPress
21/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Day One of the Indian Open of Surfing canceled?
Day One was canceled due to heavy rainfall and unsafe sea conditions caused by the early onset of monsoons and cyclonic activity in the Arabian Sea.
When will the competition resume?
The organizers are hopeful that the competition will resume on Day Two, depending on weather conditions.
Where is the Indian Open of Surfing taking place?
The event is being held at Tannirbhavi Eco Beach in Mangaluru.
How many surfers are participating?
Over 50 top surfers are set to compete across various categories during the championship.
Who are some notable participants?
Notable participants include Ramesh Budhial, Kishore Kumar, Ajeesh Ali, and Shrishti Selvam.