The sailing galatta

February 08, 2016 12:00 am | Updated 02:07 am IST

Manapad is all set to host the Manapad classic, second edition of Sail & Surf Festival, which will be a three-day affair where water sports enthusiasts from across the country are expected to participate. It features five water sports – sailing, surfing, kite boarding, kayaking and stand up saddle conducted at a competitive level simultaneously. They have introduced wind surfing this year, says Arun Miranda, the Director of ‘Manapad Surf Resort’, the organizer of the festival.

“The beach is blessed with favorable wind and wave conditions for all these sports. There are specific locations along the coast like Covelong Point, Mahabalipuram, Thoothukudi and Manapad, ideal for adventure water sports. The idea is to promote adventure water sports amongst the younger generation, to promote tourism in Tamil Nadu and to empower the young residents of these coastal hamlets.”

Arun says, “Amateur and professional athletes from many parts of the country have confirmed their participation for this year’s event. We expect the numbers to cross 150 and some of the participants have already started arriving in Manapad to commence their practice sessions.” This year’s festival will also include teams from the Indian Coast Guard and the Tamil Nadu Police’s Coastal Security Group, taking part in the regatta.

The organizers will hold a special kayaking race and ocean swimming competition for the local villagers. Alongside the main competitions, special workshops and training sessions for visitors on extreme fitness, surfing, kayaking, slack lining and skate boarding will also be held at the venue. Local artisans from the women’s Self Help Group will display their Palm Leaf handicraft merchandise and school kids from the village will entertain the visitors with cultural programs.

Food stalls set up by villagers will serve a broad variety of local delicacies. As part of this three day event, the organizers have also planned for a massive beach cleanup campaign. ‘Manapad Classic’ is spearheaded by Manapad Surf Resort in association with Tamil Nadu Tourism acting as the Title sponsor and Tuticorin District Administration providing the overall support. An expert committee comprising leading adventure sports outfits like Quest Expeditions, Aqua Outback, Covelong Point Surf School, Kiteboarding Federation of India, Surfing Federation of India and Tamil Nadu Sailing Association will conduct the different sporting events. Winners will be awarded certificates, cash prizes and trophies. The sports regatta will be held from February 12 to 14, 2016, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For details, visit www.manapadclassic.com or call 98403-47523.

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