Thulusdhoo, Maldives (August 13) - The Asian Surfing Championship is set to take place in K. Thulusdhoo, with the most accomplished Maldivian surfer, Hussain Areef (Iboo), leading the team as coach.

The championship is scheduled for August 17-24.

At 46, Iboo, a celebrated surfing legend, assumed the coaching role of the National Surfing Team in February. Since then, he has been actively involved in training and enhancing both the senior and junior national teams.

A two-time bronze medalist at the Asian Surfing Championship, Iboo faces a significant challenge this year, as the event also serves as a qualifier for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.

At the launch event for the Asian Surfing Championship 2024, Iboo shared his thoughts with "Adhadhu Sports" about his coaching role with the national team. He emphasized that Maldivian surfers are committed to continuous learning and improvement, making every effort count.

"This even is a huge opportunity for Maldivian surfers to make an impact. As its a Asian Games qualification event, this give additional boost to the National surfers." Iboo stated.

A significant aspect of the competition is that several members of the National Surfing Team are from Thulusdhoo, the host of the event. Notably, the captain of the National Surfing Team, Ahmed Agil (Ammadey), is a local from Thulusdhoo.

"It's our country, we know the benefits, and there is a advantage in it" Iboo shared his opinion regarding the home advantage factor.

Minister of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation, Abdulla Rafiu (Raappe), presented the national jersey and merchandise to the National Surfing Team at a special event organized for this purpose.

"We should aim for more glory than the previous competition," Minister Rafiu, gave his well wishes to the National Surfing Team.

The Maldives Surfing Association (MSA) reports that athletes from nearly 20 countries are expected to compete in this year's Asian Surfing Championship. With the inclusion of surfers, teams, technical officials, and media, the total number of participants is anticipated to exceed 200.

Maldives National Surfing squad for Asian Championship 2024

National Senior "A" Team

Ahmed Agil (Ammadey) (C)

Hood Ahmed

Ismail Miglaal

National senior "B" Team

Hassan Nasih

Ismail Rasheed (Smiley)

Ahmed Hisham Shaheem

Womens 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