This year, the Olympic rings have been added in front of a new sport — surfing! Without a doubt, surfing is one of the most exhilarating water sports, highly adored by its fans worldwide. If you are the kind of person who is excited about the ocean, rolling waves, and more so the adrenaline-fueled action in the sport, then for sure you are going to love what is brought about by the Olympic surfing events that lie ahead. We got everything that you need.
It’s time to Catch the Wave
Surfing at Tokyo 2020 is its first appearance at the Olympics and has proven to be popular with a wide range of people. It showcases the best athletes in the world expressing their skills over the waves. Surfing is expected to continue with its next set of Olympic games.
Event Dates and Venue
The actual surf events will extend over a few days. As such, great wave conditions are taken into careful consideration. The planners intend to spread the events over a number of days at one of the famous beaches known for waves.
Day 1: Opening Rounds
The opening rounds will be scheduled for the first day. The male and female surfers will separately move through these. In the elimination rounds, a heat is dropped. It incorporates a set of surfers. They will ride some waves and display tricks. The judges will score them based on the maneuvers they have made.
Day 2: Elimination Rounds
Day Two is the really crucial day. It is the day of all the elimination rounds. The top surfers will advance through from the opening rounds. This is a day of whittling down the competition. The pressure will be high, and the waves will be big.
In the third day, the best surfers pit against each other in the quarterfinals. The athletes exert all efforts during each heat to advance to the semifinals.
On the fourth day, the semifinals take place. All the best surfers from the quarterfinals are lining up to fight it out. During the finals, the best will have to shine over the sun. There are a lot of stakes, and the excitement is over the roof.
Day 5: Finals and Medal Ceremony
According to most people, the most exciting day is the final day due to the final medals after determining the finalist. There are all categories including the medallist; that is the gold medallist, silver medallist, and the bronze medallist. There is an immediate medal ceremony just after the finals, hence a celebration moment for the winners alongside the fan clubs.
Essential Information for Fans
If you would like to be a spectator as the events of surfing take part, below is some useful information.
Live Streaming
You can follow the events in real time on TV or the web. There will be a wide array of broadcasters covering the Olympics. Check your local listings for channels and times. Online streaming is also available on a number of different platforms. Be sure to check the schedule to catch your favorite surfers in action.
Best Viewing Spots
If you are fortunate enough to be a part of the audience, then here are some of the best venues to watch the action. There are official places assigned to watch the event at the beach. Be sure to come early if you wish to find yourself good seating since it is limited. Remember to get some sunscreen, a hat to shield you from the sun, and enough water for you. Enjoy the sun and surfing!
Following Your Favorite Surfers
Many of the fans have favorite surfers they follow. You can stay in touch with their performance through social media. Many surfers post updates and behind-the-scenes content. Follow their account to keep updated.
The Surfers to Watch
This year, there are a few surfers to watch. They have made a name for themselves in the world of surfing.
John John Florence
John John Florence is a favorite. He is from the U.S. and has won so many championships due to his skill over the waves.
Carissa Moore
She is from the U.S. and has been the favorite in the women’s division for quite some time. She has great performances.
Gabriel Medina
He is a competitor from Brazil. He is fierce and has been awarded various world titles for his tricks and style.
Stephanie Gilmore from Australia
Stephanie Gilmore from Australia is a veteran in the sport. She has several world titles to her name. Her experience makes her a strong contender.
The Importance of Wave Conditions
Crucial to the surfing event are the wave conditions. The schedule is hence flexible to fit in the best waves. Organizers, therefore, have to monitor the weather and wave forecasts keenly. They may have to adjust timetables to make sure the conditions are right; whereby for the sport of surfing, the best performer will win.
Tips for Those Who Want to Be Surfers
If you are looking to be a surfer, watching surfing in the Olympics can be very motivating. Here are some tips.
Start with the Basics
First, learn how to surf properly. Practice with small waves and try to get your balance for better paddling.
Get lessons
At least let the professionals train you. They would know how to teach you proper techniques. This way, you progress faster.
Practice often
Getting into the water should be a regular routine. You should, therefore, practice as much as possible. The more you practice, the better you get.
Be safe
Always take safety as your priority. Use the proper equipment and only ride in those areas according to your skills. Have respect for the ocean and its power.
Conclusion
Olympic surfing events are promising to be enthralling. With a packed itinerary of top surfers, it is a treat for the fans. You will follow in some other way if you are not going to watch live, so you cannot miss it. Enjoy the waves and great performances. Surfing has really made a super big splash for the Olympics!
