In a historic moment, Japanese surfers Sara Wakita and Tenshi Iwami emerged victorious at the first-ever Tamil Nadu International Surf Open, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 3,000 event. The competition witnessed an international field of surfers battling it out at Mahabalipuram Beach, where ideal conditions with three-foot surf made for an exhilarating finals day.
Tenshi Iwami, aiming to secure a significant result to qualify for the 2024 WSL Challenger Series, faced a tough challenge in the final against Kian Martin of Sweden. While Martin initially appeared to have the upper hand with consistent scores, Iwami made a spectacular comeback in the dying moments of the heat. In a thrilling turn of events, Iwami secured a set wave with priority and delivered a remarkable performance, earning an 8.75 for a single wave and clinching the lead. His total of 16.30 for two waves marked the highest combination throughout the event. With this victory, Iwami not only claimed the biggest win of his career but also ascended to the third position in the WSL Asia Regional Rankings.
Reflecting on his triumph, Iwami shared his excitement: “Even though I was trailing and needed a high score of 8.00, I knew I could do it if I got the right wave. When the set came in during the final moments, I trusted my instincts and went for it. I can’t recall it all; it was like pure instinct. I’m thrilled about my first QS win and the experience of being in India – the waves, people, food, and culture have been amazing.”
In the women’s final, Sara Wakita faced off against fellow Japanese surfer Shino Matsuda, known for her quick backhand attack. In a closely contested battle, both surfers exchanged waves and mid-range scores. Wakita’s elegant frontside technique and rhythm allowed her to secure a two-wave total of 13.50, taking the lead. Despite Matsuda’s impressive 8.10 single-wave score, she couldn’t back it up, resulting in Wakita’s victory. This achievement propelled Wakita to the third position in the WSL Asia Regional Rankings.
Wakita commented on the challenging final: “It was a tough final, but I expected that competing against Shino, who I’ve considered a rival since we started surfing. We traded waves and good scores throughout the final. Winning in India is truly awesome, especially as part of the historic first-ever WSL event here. This new experience has been great for me.”
Arun Vasu, the president of the India Surf Federation, expressed his delight at witnessing the event’s successful conclusion, emphasizing the event’s significance for Indian surfing: “Hosting this event and witnessing top-level competition at our home break is incredible. It’s been a fantastic week, providing exposure and experience for Indian surfers. I extend my gratitude to all involved in making this happen.”
The Tamil Nadu International Surf Open marked a milestone in the world of surfing, showcasing the talent and determination of surfers from around the globe while contributing to the growth of surfing in India.
-IANS
