Thulusdhoo, Maldives (August 18): Hussain Areef (Iboo), coach of the Maldives National Surfing team, expressed strong optimism regarding the abilities of Maldivian surfers competing in the Asian Surfing Championship 2024.
The Asian Surfing Championship has returned to Thulusdhoo, with the opening heats taking place today. Iboo, the coach of the Maldives surfing team, shared his thoughts on the competition and the team’s preparation with "Adhadhu Sports."
"We arrived here for final preparations four or five days ago, and we've been practicing two or three times daily to adapt to various wave conditions. From what I’ve observed, I can confidently say that the boys are performing well," said Iboo, 46, who has been coaching the team for nearly six months.
A two-time bronze medalist at the Asian Surfing Championship, Iboo faces a major challenge this year as the event doubles as a qualifier for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.
"I’m hopeful that our senior men will perform strongly, with the primary goal being a qualification spot. I also have confidence in our junior surfers and believe they have the potential to secure a podium finish," Iboo added.
The competition will continue until August 24th, attracting many locals from Thulusdhoo as well as visitors from the capital city, Male, who come to support the national athletes.
Iboo encouraged fans to attend in person, stating, "Take some time to come to Thulusdhoo and support our athletes. For those who are watching via livestream, we appreciate all your support as well."
Maldives National Surfing squad for Asian Championship 2024
National Senior "A" Team
Ahmed Agil (Ammadey) (C)
Hood Ahmed
Ismail Miglaal
National senior "B" Team (Team Thulusdhoo)
Hassan Nasih
Ismail Rasheed (Smiley)
Ahmed Hisham Shaheem
Women's Team
Aaya Naseem
Shaziya Saeed
Junior National "A" Team
Sayyid Salaahuddeen (C)
Yasin Mohamed Nashid
Yoosuf Kayan Hamdhaan Zaki
Junior National "B" Team
Kayan Abdulla Areef
Ahmed Zayan
Mohamed Inan Abdul Hannan
