Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Udhayanidhi Stalin, and Surfing Federation of India President, Arun Vasu, at a press conference announcing the 4th Asian Surfing Championship, to be held in Mahabalipuram from August 3 to 13, 2025.
| Photo Credit:
BIJOY GHOSH/businessline

Tamil Nadu is emerging as a rising surfing hub with Mahabalipuram set to host the ASF Asian Surfing Championships 2025 from August 3 to 12, 2025.

This year’s championship will bring together athletes from 20 Asian countries. Competitors will battle it out in Shortboard divisions: Open Men, Open Women, U18 Boys, and U18 Girls. Beyond the medals — Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Copper — surfers will be vying for qualification spots for the 2026 Asian Games.

The Asian Surfing Championships 2025 in Mahabalipuram will see the newly crowned men’s and women’s champions receive direct berths to the SurfCity El Salvador ALAS Global Finals, scheduled for November 17–23, 2025.

“Tamil Nadu continues to lead India’s surfing movement, with 8 out of 12 Indian team athletes coming from the state. This is a testament to the region’s strong grassroots programs and focus on elite athlete development,” a statement said.

Investments in surf schools, training centres, and coastal programs have enabled youth — particularly from fishing and coastal communities — to rise from local competitions to international stages, the statement added.

The championship is supported by the Government of Tamil Nadu, the Department of Youth Welfare & Sports Development, and the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), who serve as official sponsors.

“Hosting the ASF Asian Surfing Championships 2025 in Tamil Nadu highlights our commitment to nurturing new sports like surfing, creating world-class opportunities for our athletes, and strengthening Tamil Nadu’s position as India’s sports and adventure tourism hub,” Udhayanidhi Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and Minister for Youth Welfare & Sports Development, said.

Arun Vasu, President, Surfing Federation of India, stated: “Hosting the Asian Surfing Championships in Mahabalipuram marks a historic moment for Indian surfing. With Tamil Nadu at the forefront, we are not only showcasing our incredible athletes but also building a stronger global community through partnerships like the ASF–PASA initiative.”

Published on July 15, 2025