News / Surfing
‘UK’s biggest’ para surfing event returning to The Wave
Para surfers from across the world are set to come together for a world-leading surfing competition at The Wave.
Taking place over two days, the English Para Surfing Open will see adaptive surfers descend on the unique inland surf lake in Easter Compton.
Ben Powis, Surfing England CEO, said the competition is important to shine a light on the “huge social value and impact para surfing brings to people’s lives” as the fight to bring more funding to the sport continues.
is needed now More than ever
The Wave, which opened in 2019, was chosen for the event as it is well-suited to those with differing physical needs due to its accessible design and the range, quality and predictability of the waves produced by its wave-making technology.
The English Para Surfing Open is returning to The Wave for the fourth time
The event is working to build the case for national funding to be made available to support a sport that’s increasing in popularity and lobby for inclusion in the Paralympic Games.
Para surfing is not a Paralympic sport, unlike surfing which was added to the Olympic program for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
England’s para surfing team placed fourth at the World Para Surfing Championships in California in 2023.
Speaking about the win, Powis said: “It is a testament to how much the para surfing community has developed over the past few years, and we will continue to focus on growing this community and future para surfing talent.
“Excitement levels at Surfing England are off the chart as we head into our biggest-ever English Para Surfing Open.
“It is always an incredible event, full of high energy and exhilarating surfing action.”
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Speaking ahead of the competition, Nick Hounsfield, founder of The Wave, added: “The English Para Surfing Open is without a doubt an absolute highlight in our calendar.
“The Wave was built on a vision of bringing the joy of water and waves, and the many health benefits of surfing, to all – regardless of ability.
“We built accessibility into The Wave from the very beginning and it is wonderful to be able to see this being used to the max on competition day.”
“We’re excited to witness the highly anticipated event this year and proud of the progress the sport continues to make.”
The 2024 MuscleFood English Para Surfing Open, which is free to watch for spectators, takes place on July 4 and 5. For more information, visit www.thewave.com/2024-english-para-surfing-open-at-the-wave
All photos: The Wave (@imagecabin_ICG)
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