Connect with us

News

Taylor Knox beats Tom Curren to win twin fin division

Published

on

Taylor Knox SurfingMaldives.net.mv – In an all-American final Taylor Knox, 42, defeated Tom Curren, 49, to claim the Twin Fin Division of the Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy at the third annual invitational at Sultan’s Point today.

With speed and maneuverability the hallmark of twin-fin performance, the iconic lineup of competitors maximized the testing but fun one-metre (3ft) point waves with Damien Hardman (Aus), Tom Carroll (Aus), Layne Beachley (Aus) and Pedro Henrique (BRZ) also in top competitive mode.

Ultimately the all-important inside connection proved key for big scores and heat wins in the strong offshore conditions. Something Knox and Curren had wired from the outset today, as they laid down timeless rail-to-rail surfing with smooth transitions between high-powered maneuvers as the competitive savvy between the master and protégé was on display.

“That was an emotional contest for me because I was surfing with all my hero’s,” said Knox. “It was just really cool today, everyone I came up against was just surfing so well.”

The first half of the final was a seesawing affair before Knox locked in a heat-high 8.03 score midway, to take the lead and never be headed. As the tide filled in conditions became inconsistent, leaving three-time world champion Curren requiring an 8.17 score on the siren. “I was really nervous at the end thinking the Tom Curren magic was going to strike me down but the ocean actually cooperated with me,” said Knox.

Last year the Californian retired from ASP World Tour after 22 years of circling the globe as one of the worlds most respected surfers and headed into the Maldives in vacation mode before getting swept up by his highly competitive rivals. “The guys are a little bit more into it than what I expected. I thought it was going to be a groovy, little fun event but they care. They really care,” laughed Knox.

“They woke me up after the first division, I went ‘Oh this is serious here’. But at the end of the day you get to go back to the Four Seasons and live in the lap of luxury so you really can’t get mad at any point,” he added.

Curren’s earlier win in the Single Fin division along with today’s runner-up result all but guarantee’s him a berth in tomorrow’s Grand Champions Final. “Taylor surfed really good, he deserved the win,” said Curren.

“I thought I had a pretty good chance, but I made a couple of mistakes. I fell on my first wave and could have made more of the final section on my last wave because no more sets came after that one. I am super happy to have been in the final and I’m going to get my board waxed up for tomorrow and hope for the best,” he added.

Curren was competing on an old board of Dane Reynolds that was originally built as a twinzer (two big main fins and two smaller fins), but the craftsmen at the Channel Islands factory knocked the fins out and rebuilt it as a standard twin-fin. In the warm-up session Curren looked downright deadly — flowing, flying, connecting sections and blasting big turns.

However today belonged to an inform Knox, who will be hoping to secure what is sure to be the hotly contested, second berth in the Grand Champions Final tomorrow. The three fin Thruster Division will prove the decider and kick start the last day of the 2013 Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy.

The event format showcases the evolution of the surfboard with the old school ‘70s single-fin in Round 1, Round 2 celebrates the brilliance of the twin-fin that dominated in the early ‘80s, and coming up in Round 3 we’ll see the state-of-the-art three-fin thrusters put to use. The two surfers with most accrued points at the end of the three rounds qualify for the Grand Champions Final.

The semi-finals saw Curren eliminate defending champion Hardman with a disciplined performance. Knox left former two-time world champion Carroll on the back foot in the second semi.

Lone female star Beachley suffered an opening round loss and was literally blown off her first wave due to the strong offshore winds, while fellow Australian Hardman and Carroll advanced through the three-person heat. “They were really challenging conditions out there,” said Beachley. “I’m disappointed, but I’m building a house, at least I caught a wave this time. Never underestimate the competitive spirit of these guys, they don’t want to lose, especially to a girl. It doesn’t matter how many world titles you have.”

Tournament young gun Pedro Henrique, 31, (BRZ/PRT) also bowed out in the opening round, out surfed by Knox and Curren in one of the events most explosive heats. Tomorrow the contest will end with the thruster division and the grand champions final.

Twin Fin Division Final
1st Taylor Knox (USA) 15.20 def. 2nd Tom Curren (USA) 13:43

News

Renowned Integrative Movement Therapist Mins Teo to lead exclusive wellness residency at Patina Maldives

Published

on

Patina Maldives is inviting guests to immerse themselves in a realm of holistic rejuvenation with Mins Teo, an acclaimed Integrative Movement Therapist, and Certified Pilates & Gyrotonic Instructor. From April 15 to May 15, 2024, Mins will guide guests through a profound exploration of mind-body harmony, offering a variety of bespoke sessions tailored to elevate holistic well-being.

Mins Teo brings a wealth of expertise garnered over a decade, seamlessly blending her background as a trained dancer and wellness provider into a transformative fusion of disciplines. Through her integrative approach, she intertwines Clinical Pilates, somatics, Fascial Release, Hatha Yoga, and Vagal Toning techniques to recalibrate both the physical and mental spheres. With Mins, each session is a personalised journey, carefully designed to meet individual needs and goals, ensuring a renewing and unique experience for every guest at Patina Maldives.

During her residency, guests will have the exclusive opportunity to indulge in private Pilates sessions, programmed to enhance core stability, strength, flexibility, and neuromuscular response. Additionally, guests can partake in private Tension-Releasing Exercises, a groundbreaking method designed to unravel deep-seated muscular tensions, stress, and trauma. As a qualified TRE® facilitator, Mins draws upon her expertise gained from working directly with Dr. David Berceli to guide guests through a journey of profound relaxation and equilibrium. Mins Teo’s residency follows the successful tenure of Junko Fujita, a certified Watsu specialist from the Okinawa WATSU Center, who delivered revitalising aquatic therapy exclusively at Patina Maldives from March 15 to April 15, 2024. Embracing diversity in holistic healing, Patina will continue its tradition by welcoming Yuki Nisjikubo, a Shiatsu & Acupuncture specialist, after Mins Teo’s residency from May 15 to June 15, 2024.

Boasting unparalleled luxury and bespoke experiences, Patina Maldives offers guests a sanctuary to reconnect with nature and rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.

Continue Reading

Drink

Savouring paradise: Taste of Mediterranean cuisine at Kuramathi’s Palm

Published

on

Indulge in exquisite culinary delights at Palm, the ultimate all-day destination at Kuramathi Maldives. From 11am to 10:30pm, guests can enjoy a variety of sensational Mediterranean creations amidst a serene al fresco dining ambiance.

Palm is tailored to suit both lunch and dinner preferences, ensuring that every member of the family is catered to. For those seeking a light lunch, Palm offers island-grown salads, antipasti, pastas, pizzas and homemade ice cream – perfect for a refreshing treat after a day at the beach. Palm takes pride in sourcing ingredients locally, with salads featuring produce from the hydroponic garden at Kuramathi, including the renowned Kuramathi Garden Salad.

For an unforgettable dinner experience, Palm offers a hearty feast of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you crave the freshest seafood, succulent meats, or indulgent pasta dishes, Palm has you covered. Enjoy an intimate dinner under the stars with a selection of fish & crustacean, meat & poultry, and a variety of pasta options. Amidst the dinner menu’s offerings, some of the special highlights include Octopus Carpaccio, Scallop with garlic and rocket, Maldivian Yellow Fin Tuna, Lamb Rump, and the iconic Pizza Kuramathi Special.

Surrounded by the serene beauty of the island, diners are treated to a feast for the senses, where every dish tells a story of tradition, innovation, and passion for food. Whether you’re gathering for a leisurely lunch with family or an intimate dinner under the stars, Palm promises to indulge your senses and create unforgettable memories for you and your loved ones.

Continue Reading

Awards

SO/ Maldives nominated for Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards

Published

on

SO/ Maldives, the luxurious island retreat nestled within the Emboodhoo Lagoon, has been nominated for the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards in the ‘Resorts’ category. This recognition reflects the resort’s dedication to exceptional hospitality and creating unforgettable guest experiences.

Since opening its doors in November 2023, SO/ Maldives has captivated travelers with its cutting-edge design, world-class cuisine, and immersive cultural experiences. The resort recently celebrated its grand opening on March 23, 2024, with a spectacular party themed “An Invite to the Front Row,” marking a significant moment in Maldivian hospitality.

The grand opening was a feast for the senses, showcasing a blend of international collaborations, artistic expression, and Maldivian charm, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Emboodhoo Lagoon. Guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening featuring haute couture, culinary artistry, live entertainment, and exclusive wellness retreats.

Collaboration Highlights:

  • Fashion Extravaganza: SO/ Maldives hosted one of the first international fashion shows in the Maldives, partnering with renowned Thai fashion house Milin. The island’s couture transformed into an oceanfront runway, showcasing Milin’s swimwear collection amidst the paradise setting.
  • Celebrating Local Talent: In collaboration with Maldivian high fashion brand Riffath, SO/ Maldives unveiled its exclusive Flying Dress Edits, highlighting local talent and culture. Guests participated in a bespoke photo and drone shooting experience, capturing memories against the breathtaking Maldivian scenery.
  • Culinary Delights: Acclaimed Chef Dharshan Munidasa curated a groundbreaking menu, fusing global culinary experiences with exquisite flavors from his renowned restaurants. Award-winning bartender Jenna Hemsworth further elevated the experience with expertly crafted cocktails.
  • Musical Performances: The evening was amplified by live performances from world-class musicians and DJs, including Maldivian band Project Groove, Thai sensation Lydia Sarunrat Deane, and DJ Basil from Dubai, culminating in an electrifying after-party.
  • Wellness and Fitness Retreats: Guests embarked on transformative journeys with week-long detox sessions by Jumping® Fitness and rejuvenating spa experiences by London-based partner Salon C. Stellar.
  • Earth Hour Celebration: Embracing eco-conscious revelry, SO/ Maldives invited guests to connect with nature during a beach bonfire with traditional Maldivian Boduberu performances under the starlit sky.
  • Culinary Finale: The evening concluded with a lavish beach buffet, celebrating luxury and culinary delight under the serene Maldivian night.

SO/ Maldives expresses its sincere gratitude to Condé Nast Traveler and its readers for the prestigious nomination. The resort remains committed to redefining luxury hospitality in the Maldives.

Voting for the Readers’ Choice Awards closes on June 30th at 11:59 PM EDT. Cast your vote now and help SO/ Maldives win!

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright all rights reserved by Maldives Promotion House 2023.