Thulusdhoo, Maldives (August 18): According to Maldives Olympic Committee President Mohamed Abduhsattar (Sattar), Maldivian surfing athletes have the potential to secure a medal in the Asian Games and qualify for the Olympics.
In an interview following the opening ceremony of the Asian Surfing Championship 2024, Sattar highlighted that since his team was elected to the Maldives Olympic Committee (MOC), there has been an increasing sense of optimism and hope for Maldivian surfing.
"Since we assumed leadership of the Maldives Olympic Committee, confidence in Maldivian surfers qualifying for the Olympics has been growing. We also feel optimistic that surfing will be the first sport in which we secure a medal at the Asian Games," Sattar, who was recently re-elected for a fourth term as president of the Swimming Association, stated.
Sattar mentioned that Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu (Raappe) also expressed his views on the growth of surfing in the Maldives and its potential for success on the international stage.
Minister Rafiu believes that the Asian Surfing Championship will benefit both Maldivian surfers and the country’s sports tourism.
Rafiu added that with over 100 athletes from 20 nations participating this year, the heightened attention on the Maldives will enhance tourism promotions and provide a significant boost.
The Asian Surfing Championship kicks off today, with this year's event serving as a qualifier for the 2026 Asian Games. Maldivian athletes are competing energetically on their home turf for these valuable spots.
