The much-anticipated "Visit Maldives Pro 2023", a prominent event on the International Boarding Corporation (IBC) World Tour, has been officially inaugurated, marking the commencement of thrilling bodyboarding action.
Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment, Ahmed Mahloof, ceremoniously launched this prestigious international bodyboarding tournament, scheduled to take place from August 3rd to 12th. The event will unfold at the picturesque Varunula Raalhugandu area in the heart of Male' city.
Having made its debut last year as the second-most prestigious competition on the IBC World Tour, the Maldives Pro attracted participants from 15 nations, including a remarkable gathering of esteemed bodyboarders, some of whom hold coveted world championship titles.
This year, the Maldives Bodyboarding Association (MBBA) expects over 100 bodyboarders from 20 countries to partake in the event. The roster will feature a blend of seasoned former world champions, reigning titleholders, and promising young athletes, all vying for glory in this highly anticipated competition.
Distinct from last year's edition, the men's Open category in Visit Maldives Pro 2023 will offer an impressive 3,000 points for the champion, as per the projections made by the MBBA. Consequently, the association anticipates a surge in the participation of top-tier bodyboarding talent from around the globe.
"This time around, talented Australian bodyboarders will grace the competition, and we are also delighted to have the participation of Malaysian athletes. Former world champions and current titleholders will fiercely contend for victory," MBBA General Secretary, Hasan Rasheed (Rush), commented on the event.
"Considering the increased points allocation, only those competing in Visit Maldives Pro can emerge as this year's champions. This assurance is expected to attract even more participants compared to the previous year."
Minister Mahloof, reflecting on the significance of the 'Maldives Pro' on the IBC World Tour, expressed his optimism for a year filled with extraordinary international events. He further highlighted the tournament's invaluable role in showcasing the Maldives and its remarkable sporting endeavors to a global audience.
The MBBA conveyed its heartfelt appreciation to the Government of Maldives and the Ministry of Youth for their unwavering support in organizing this year's 'Maldives Pro' on local shores. The collaborative efforts have ensured the continuity of this highly anticipated event, further solidifying the Maldives' standing as a premier destination for world-class bodyboarding competitions.
The exceptional performances of Maldivian athletes in the previous edition of the 'Maldives Pro' garnered significant praise. Armin Umar Moosa made it to the finals in the junior section, while Ali Hushruwan Ahmed (Kuda Aaya) reached the semi-finals in the drop knee section. These remarkable achievements propelled them onto the global rankings, with Kuda Ayya securing an impressive 12th place in the drop-knee category at the end of the year.
