Tru StarlingAfter the ISA and IOC declared surfing an Olympic sport a few years ago, pro and amateur surfers from around the world finally got the green light to dream to be an Olympic gold medalist in their chosen sport of surfing.
But the future of Olympic surfing was looked at as (for some time) only a possible trial.
Now the ISA and IOC have declared that surfing will have another shot before the Olympic debut has even started and this time it will be for the Paris Olympics in 2024 with Teahupo’o being named as a possible location.
It’s kind of hard to not draw comparisons (or lack there of) between the small beach breaks of Japan and the serious reef breaks in Tahiti. How does that look for a surfer representing a country with smaller waves? For us that already makes 2024 more exciting than the debut in 2021. Teahupo’o changes surfing, it changes how you train, how you surf and it definitely challenges your intention to “go” or “not to go”.
It can also change how a country selects their surfers and places some countries that may have not been considered for a medal into a strong position to medal. The French team with surfers Like Justine Dupont and Vahine Fierro.
Chair of the ISA Athletes’ Commission, Justine Dupont said:
“As an athlete there is no greater achievement than competing at the Olympic Games and amongst the surfers there is huge excitement about Paris 2024, especially with Tahiti as the location.
In surfing, Teahupo’o is a sacred place, rich in history and tradition and without a doubt, one of the most exciting, consistent waves in the world for our sport.
“I know I can speak on behalf of my fellow surfers in saying that we can’t wait to showcase our sport in Tahiti at the Paris Games in 2024.”
ISA President Fernando Aguerre said:
“Surfing is perfect for the new era of the Games and selecting our sport for the Olympic Programme – with Tahiti as the venue – is testimony to Paris 2024’s creative and inclusive spirit. This decision also aligns with the IOC’s wider objective to apply new, innovative approaches to Games hosting.
“The conditions at Teahupo’o offer an amazing performance wave that will excite athletes and captivate fans. Elite surfers – men and women – compete here regularly and are eager to compete for Olympic glory at Teahupo’o. With 22 men and 22 women surfers, we are happy to reaffirm our total commitment to gender equality and fair sport.
So what do you think about Teahupo’o? Does it sound more exciting than the Japan games next year? Does your team pick from 2024 look much different to next year’s team???
We would love to hear your thoughts.
Murmur-Mag
Jesse Starling
Jacqui Maree Bailey
