Mangaluru : The three-day surfing extravaganza, the Second Edition of Indian Open of Surfing 2017, concluded on a vibrant note in the presence of celebrities and dignitaries at Sasihithlu Beach near Mangaluru on Sunday.
More than 120 surfers from India, US, Maldives, Reunion Island, Australia and France took part in the championship, which is recognized by the International Surfing Association and Surfing Federation of India and is organized by Dakshina Kannada district administration in association with Karnataka Tourism, Kanara Surfing and Water Sports Promotion Council in partnership with Mantra Surf Club.
Film actor and producer Suniel Shetty spoke a little in Tulu and said that he belonged very much to Tulunadu. The Indian Open of Surfing has proven to be a proud moment for Karnataka. He said that his childhood memories are associated with Sasihithlu beach and recollected his encounters with Mantra surfing club, which has nourished surfing in the region.
Star cricketer of South Africa Jonty Rhodes and Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty and Miss India South Nikshitha Shenoy added glory to the valedictory ceremony. Celebrities along with former minister K Abhaychandra jain, MLC Ivan D’Souza and deputy commissioner K G Jagadeesha presented prizes to winners.
DK DC Dr K G Jagadeesha, Additional Deputy Commissioner Kumar, MCC mayor Kavitha Sanil, Haleyangadi Gram Panchayat president Jalaja, Surfing Swami Foundation founder Jack Hebner (Surfing Swamy), KCCI president Jeevan Saldanha and District Youth Congress president Mithun Rai were present during the programme