International Surfing adds colour to Arugambay

Text and picture by M.A. Phakurdeen -Addalaichenai Group Corr.

Elaborate arrangements have been made by Sri Lanka Tourism in collaboration with Sri Lankan Airlines to conduct the " International Surfing 2011" competition in a grand manner at Arugambay, the famous tourist resort in the East from August 30 to Sept 4.

Deputy Minister of Economic Development Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena was in Arugambay last week to assess the progress and discuss the issues relating to conducting this event with Government Officials and stakeholders.

Tourism Development Authority managing director Rumy Jaufar, Head of Standards Quality Assurance and Investment, legal and special projects Dileep Mudadeniya, Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman M.S. Waseeth, President of Chamber of Tourism and Industry of Sri Lanka A.M. Jahufar, Arugambay Tourists Associations president M.S. Raheem and representatives of Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau, Police, STF, Navy, Air force and Public were also present.

Later, Deputy Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena and other officials inspected the areas where surfing competitions are scheduled to be held.

It may be noted that this year's competition will feature not only male surfers who will compete for the title, female surfers too will take part in the competition for the first time in Sri Lanka.

The event will attract high ranked World Tour Competitors which will help to enhance the profile of Sri Lanka by showcasing Arugambay as a tourist destination in South Asia.

It added that brand ASP (Association of Surfing Professionals) world tour will be WQS (World Qualifying Series) and one of the highlighted sporting events in the calendar year which will create enthusiasm among the Sports tourism segment.