JOIN USIndia’s first national Surfing and Stand up Paddle (SUP) competition got underway at the Sylvan Beach resort of Kovalam here on Friday with former South African cricketing star Jonty Rhodes inaugurating it.
Rhodes, an avid surfer who now trains Mumbai Indians in fielding in the IPL, called the Spice Coast Open a pioneering event that could shape a new generation of international surfing stars from India. “This is a chance for India to get its youngsters interested in a sport that is thrilling and fun, and keeps you healthy and fit,” said Rhodes.
“Surfing has something that even cricket does not and that’s the ‘cool’ factor. Everything about surfing is cool, from the outfits to the style.”
The 43-year-old said he finds surfing a welcome break from the stress of cricket. “Cricket today is more of a career, it is serious business and hard work, but surfing as a sport has yet to reach those levels of competitiveness so it lets you chill and loosen up.”Rhodes also praised the beaches in Kovalam and said they were fantastic spots for surfing. He said the SFI was doing a commendable job promoting the sport and he spent some time with the surfers.