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Sunny Garcia and Taylor Jensen join the world class line up for Surfing Champions Trophy 2014

Maldives.net.mv – It just keeps getting better and better! The line up for the 2014 Surfing Champions Trophy is almost complete. Sunny Garcia (USA) and Taylor Jensen (USA) have just been confirmed to battle the Maldives’ breaks alongside David “Rasta” Rastovich (Australia), Fabio Gouveia (Brazil) and defending champion Taylor “TK” Knox (USA) in the world’s most luxurious surf contest. And, anticipation is growing on who will claim the sixth and final spot.
Hawaii born, fiercely competitive, and coined “the world’s most elegant tube rider,” Sunny Garcia was the second pro surfer to rack up more than USD 1 million in prize money. His top surfing moments include ASP WCT World Champion 2000, the record for the most WQS wins (22) and winning six Triple Crown of Surfing titles (more than any other surfer in history).
Dubbed “Sunny” as a child for his happy disposition, his competitive public image is balanced by his private fun-loving playfulness. Having overcome more than his fair share of challenges throughout his career, Sunny today uses the spotlight to champion various causes that are important to him. En route to the Maldives, he’ll be travelling from Hawaii via California to support the Mauli Ola Foundation Surf Experience Days, which help children with cystic fibrosis.
Sunny comments, “I’m honoured to be competing against such esteemed world champions, but competition aside, my wife and I can’t wait to enjoy some Four Seasons luxury in the beautiful Maldives – I’ve been to the Maldives before and simply can’t wait to get back to paradise!”
One of the most pioneering longboarders of all time, California native Taylor Jensen has won every major pro-longboarding tournament around the world at least once. The long list includes two ASP World titles, four ASP North America titles and three Australasian regional titles. While famous for pushing the limits of a longboard, Taylor can ride just about anything, ever on the quest for creative ways to cherish the ocean. His passion for different wave crafts – traditional, single fin longboards, modern shortboards and alaias – sets him up to be the dark horse of the competition. Not to mention the fact that his future father-in-law, Nat Young, and two best friends – Josh Constable and Phil Rajzman – have had firsthand experience taking part in previous years.
“I’m really stoked to be able to take part in such a cool and unique event,” says Taylor, who will be travelling to the Maldives with his equally stylish surfer fiancé, Nava. “The opportunity to share the waves with some of my heroes, surfing head-to-head against them, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The Maldives is an incredible surf destination and the accommodations look amazing so I’m sure it will be one of the best trips of my life!”
The Surfing Champions Trophy
Now in its fourth year, the boutique invitation-only competition needs little introduction as it continues to gain momentum as one of the coolest pro surfer – and spectator – tickets around. Hosted in conjunction with luxury surf pioneers Tropicsurf aboard the Maldives ultimate surf vessel, Four Seasons Explorer, the unique event sees six ex-world champions ride it out on single-fin, twin-fin and triple-fin thrusters to win teammate kudos and USD 25,000 prize money.
The event runs alongside Four Seasons Maldives Domestic Champions Trophy, where the best local talent attempt to upstage the pros with their “home wave” knowledge and next generation maverick skills – plus the chance to scoop MVR 25,000.
Surf fans can book the all-inclusive Group Surf & Stay (available from August 4 to 11 for a minimum booking of four rooms for five or seven nights). In addition to competition day passes, full board and transfers, Group Surf & Stay includes five or seven days of intense surfing with Tropicsurf’s expert guides, plus the chance to rub shoulders with all the Surfing Champions contestants in Kuda Huraa’s award-winning surrounds.
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Game on! Upcoming Meyyafushi unveils Maldives’ first overwater padel court

Get ready for a unique sporting experience in paradise! Meyyafushi Maldives, the highly anticipated new resort from the owners and operators of Fushifaru Maldives, has teased an extraordinary amenity on its social media channels: an overwater padel tennis court. Set to open in October 2025, Meyyafushi Maldives is already generating buzz, and this innovative addition is sure to elevate its appeal.
Building on the established success of Fushifaru Maldives, known for its intimate atmosphere and stunning natural beauty in Lhaviyani Atoll, Meyyafushi Maldives promises a similar commitment to exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences. While details about the new resort have been gradually unfolding, the recent reveal of the overwater padel tennis court marks a significant and exciting development.
Padel tennis, a popular racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, squash, and badminton, is gaining traction globally. However, Meyyafushi Maldives is taking the game to a whole new level – literally. Imagine the thrill of a friendly (or perhaps a fiercely competitive!) match with the breathtaking backdrop of the turquoise Maldivian waters stretching out beneath the court. The social media post showcasing the court hints at a truly exceptional spot to engage in some active fun with loved ones while soaking in the unparalleled scenery.

This pioneering amenity underscores Meyyafushi Maldives’ dedication to offering distinctive and memorable experiences for its guests. It signals a resort that is not only focused on relaxation and natural beauty but also on providing unique and engaging activities. The overwater padel tennis court is poised to become a signature feature, attracting sports enthusiasts and those seeking novel ways to enjoy their Maldivian getaway.
As Meyyafushi Maldives gears up for its October 2025 opening, the introduction of the first overwater padel tennis court in the Maldives adds another compelling reason to anticipate its arrival. This innovative amenity promises a memorable and picturesque sporting experience, further solidifying the resort’s position as a noteworthy addition to the Maldivian hospitality landscape.
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Ifuru Island Maldives takes part in Burunu Boma sport fishing tournament

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced its participation in the inaugural Burunu Boma Sport Fishing Tournament, taking place from 2 to 4 May 2025. Organized by the Visit Maldives Club (VMC), this premier event aims to position the Maldives as a leading destination for sustainable sport fishing.
As one of the select resorts competing in this prestigious tournament, Team Ifuru Maldives will showcase its commitment to marine conservation and responsible tourism. The competition emphasizes “catch and release” practices, aligning with global efforts to preserve marine biodiversity.
Participants will target species such as marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, swordfish, and bigeye tuna, with a grand prize of USD 25,000 awarded to the top-performing team. The event also features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere, celebrating the Maldives’ rich fishing heritage.
“We are thrilled to be part of Burunu Boma and to represent Ifuru Island Maldives in this landmark event,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Our participation underscores our dedication to sustainable practices and our passion for the ocean that surrounds us.”
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Sirru Fen Fushi to host ‘One Ocean, One Breath’ with Freedive Maldives to mark World Oceans Day

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort, invites ocean lovers and adventure seekers to a purposeful World Oceans Day celebration in partnership with Freedive Maldives, Guinness World Record Holder for the Most People Performing Static Apnea held last October 2022.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of the largest natural lagoons and house reefs in the Maldives, the event promises a deep connection to the ocean through expert-led PADI Freediving courses, ranging from basic to advanced levels. Participants will have the opportunity to earn their freediving certification, explore Sirru’s 9-kilometer-long house reef, and admire vibrant marine biodiversity, including manta ray cleaning stations, nurse shark points, flourishing coral gardens, and turtle habitats, home to 93 resident turtles and 11 successful hatchings this year alone.
“Our house reef, one of the longest and most vibrant in the Maldives, is a sanctuary for marine life and a symbol of our deep commitment to ocean conservation,” said Lukasz Prendke, General Manager of Sirru Fen Fushi. “We are honoured to collaborate with Freedive Maldives in celebrating World Oceans Day, not only to offer our guests an unforgettable underwater journey, but also to empower local talents and inspire our community to protect what lies beneath the surface.”
The initiative aligns with the resort’s ongoing sustainability commitments, including regular lagoon cleaning programs and support for local marine conservation efforts. This collaboration further emphasizes a shared mission to preserve the Maldives’ rich underwater heritage and engage the local community in meaningful environmental action.
In a broader commitment to sustainable tourism, Freedive Maldives has also signed a partnership agreement with the Baa Atoll Council to host another record-breaking freediving event in October 2025, coinciding with World Tourism Day, reinforcing Baa Atoll’s position as a leader in eco-conscious marine tourism.
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