Strong swell may pose challenge for surfers at NMPA IOS
Mangaluru: Stage is set for the sixth edition of the NMPA Indian Open of Surfing (NMPA IOS) at the Tannirbhavi Eco Beach. Organised by Surfing Swami Foundation and hosted by the Mantra Surf Club, under the aegis of Surfing Federation of India (SFI), the event will be held from May 30 to June 1.
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This will be the second leg of the 2025 National Surfing Championship series.
Adding a dramatic layer to this year's edition is the surf forecast, with wave heights predicted to reach 10 to 12 feet, on the competition dates. These powerful swells will demand precision, stamina, and strategy, elevating the thrill and the difficulty for competitors.
The cyclonic activity and unpredictable weather patterns over the Arabian Sea may prove to be an unpredictable competitor, and play a spoilsport for the event.
The heightened challenge will also have implications for national rankings, especially with the Asian Surf Championship 2025, a qualifier for the 2026 Asian Games, on the horizon.
Originally scheduled at Sasihithlu Beach, this year's competition is relocated to Tannirbhavi Eco Beach due to unfavourable weather conditions. The new venue promises comparable wave quality while ensuring better safety for surfers and spectators alike.
"With a strong field of athletes and a challenging forecast of 10–12 ft waves, we are in for an intense and exciting three days of competition. This event would not be possible without the unwavering support of New Mangalore Port Authority, Karnataka tourism, and Cycle Pure Agarbathis, who continue to champion the growth of surfing in India," said Rammohan Paranjape, vice president of Surfing Federation of India and director at Mantra Surf Club.
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In the lead-up to the sixth edition of NMPA IOS, local competitions have been aiming to unearth regional surfing talent. These events build momentum ahead of the national championship and set the stage for a sustainable pipeline of talent.
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