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Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy: Burrow gets twin fin win, Kuda Issey beats World Champion

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Taj Burrow took out the twin fin division of the 2017 Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy on Saturday, as local talent Ismail ‘Kuda Issey’ Miglal beat former World Champion CJ Hobgood despite an eventual defeat.

On day two of the competition, Burrow was unstoppable in the pumping three-five foot clean waves on offer at Sultans as he moves closer to a spot in the overall final.

Burrow finding some shade during his super heat with Ross Wiliams. PHOTO/ TOM BENNETT

In the final, Burrow came up against form surfer Rob Machado in a thrilling match-up. After Machado knocked Burrow out in the semifinal of the single fin, Burrow had something to prove and was hungry for redemption. His early round loss in the same division last year looked like a distant memory as Burrow ripped his way to a winning two-wave combination of 16.67.

“I couldn’t believe how good the waves were today, I definitely wasn’t expecting it to be that good, we were pretty spoiled. Everyone was so fired up today, my heat with Ross was so sick, just a real see-saw then the final with Rob was just all time, I’m so worn out now,” Burrow said.

Burrow had his worst result in the twin fin division at the 2016 Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy and was keen to turn it around. Opting to surf on the same board he did last year, Burrow found a rhythm and possibly a new favourite weapon.

“Surfing in a final with Rob on a ‘twinnie’ is a pretty tough task. He is so good on these different boards and is surfing so well right now, it’s like he is still a teenager. It was super intense and I’m stoked to get one back on him. I haven’t surfed this board since last year, but I knew if I got a good one on it, that it’d go well. I loved it. It’s just so sick to be back here, the level of luxury is amazing. Rebecca and I are thinking of extending our stay at the Four Seasons Kuda Huraa. It’s just too good,” Burrow said.

Taj claimed he felt more comfortable on his twin fin than any other board and with turns like this, it’s easy to see why. PHOTO/ SEAN SCOTT

Machado was the surfer to beat in the twin fin with a solid display of surfing all day. On a board he shaped himself, he posted a heat total of 14.80 in the final but it was not enough to overcome a rampaging Burrow. With this being his second final of the event, he still leads the charge to the overall final of the event.

“When we pulled up this morning, we were freaking out,” Machado said.

“The waves were so good today, everyone was stoked. After surfing here last year I had a good idea of the twin fin I wanted to shape and I loved how it went. This wave offers a lot of different sections, so you need a versatile board. The competition today was so exciting, the semi with Taj and Ross was crazy and it got me so pumped to surf. The waves were non-stop all day; it was amazing and a real pleasant surprise.”

Rob Machado’s smooth style had a touch of aggressiveness on day two of competition in the Maldives, perfectly displayed here. PHOTO/ TOM BENNETT

Local Maldivian wildcard Kuda Issey put on an impressive display in his opening round heat to overcome 2001 WSL Champion CJ Hobgood. Kuda Issey was electric on his twin fin, even throwing a few aerial manoeuvres to move into the semifinal. In the end, he was eliminated by Machado, but was stoked to make a heat against some of his heroes.

“Making a heat at this event is like a dream for me,” Kuda Issey said.

“I never thought it would happen, but somehow I was able to find a long one at the end. It is really surreal surfing against my heroes, and to beat a world champion is amazing. I got really lucky. We are all so stoked the waves turned on today; it was pumping out there. I’m so honoured to represent the Maldives in this special event.”

Kuda Issey punting into the semi-finals on home turf. PHOTO/ SEAN SCOTT

In what was undoubtedly the heat of the event so far, eventual division winner Burrow came up against Hawaiian Ross Williams. Williams looked tack sharp on his fresh twin fin laying it on rail and gouging huge hacks, posting a heat total of 17.36. Burrow found himself on the ropes needing an 8.70. With only minutes to go, Burrow found a perfect set wave and got to work. The 19-year CT veteran put on an incredible display of his trademark whipping turns to post an excellent score to win the heat with a total of 18.10.

“I was more nervous at the beginning of the heat than the end,” Williams said.

“The fact that I had a lead in that heat at all was cool as Taj is ripping so hard. I’ve only surfed that twin fin a couple of times, so it was nice to feel it out. You really have to surf with your rail on a twin fin. Otherwise you just slide out, so it’s a major learning curve, something that makes this event super cool. It was a really good battle that heat, and that’s what you want. I’m having such an amazing time here in the Maldives. This place is incredible and the waves are sick.”

Ross Williams pushed eventual winner Taj Burrow right to the end of the semi with his trademark combination of style and power. PHOTO/ TOM BENNETT

The 2017 Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy kick started on Friday after its opening early last week. Day one saw the completion of the Single Fin division, which was taken out by Californian style guru Machado.

The Surfing Champions Trophy determines heat times based on age and tests skill across three divisions: single-fin, twin-fin and thruster. Places are by invitation-only to six world champions in a battle for inner-circle kudos and a USD25,000 prize pot.

Returning to the annual event is Four Seasons Explorer, the Maldives’ ultimate surf vessel. Following a full interior refurbishment, the 39-metre catamaran is proudly showcasing sleek new finishes and stylish soft furnishings across all three decks while hosting the contest.

Fans can get up close to all of the action with onboard VIP passes, then continue the “surf tour” experience with shoulder-rubbing events back at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa — the homeport for the event’s competitors, judges and Tropicsurf partners.

CJ Hobgood came just short against local Kuda Issey in Round One. PHOTO/ TOM BENNETT

Combining innovation, wellness and conservation, Four Seasons Resort Maldives Landaa Giraavaru is a 44-acre, 103-villa wonderland in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — a 30-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport.

Its sister property, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa lies to the south: an enchanting garden island complete with Island Spa sea sanctuary and Tropicsurf coaches and guides. It features 96 thatched beach and water accommodations constructed by local craftsmen using indigenous materials and techniques to reflect a true sense of the Maldives.

The luxury catamaran Four Seasons Explorer connects the two properties via three, four and seven-night cruises, plus private leisure, surf and manta ray charters.

The latest addition to the Maldives collection, Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll opened in December as the group’s first exclusive-use private island: off limits to everyone else, limitless to the guests.

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Tennis legend Marion Bartoli leads exclusive lessons at Siyam World Maldives

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From December 10th to 14th, Siyam World Maldives will host an unforgettable event for tennis enthusiasts and sports lovers. In collaboration with LUX Tennis, the resort welcomes former World No. 7 and Wimbledon Champion Marion Bartoli for an exciting LUX Tennis Star Event, featuring private lessons, group clinics, and a Meet & Greet with the tennis legend.

After establishing itself as a premier destination for football camps and hosting some of the sport’s greatest players, Siyam World is now shifting focus to tennis, with Marion Bartoli as the latest star to join its roster of sports icons. Guests will have the opportunity to step onto the court with Bartoli herself, gaining insights and tips from one of the sport’s best, whether they’re experienced players or beginners looking to improve their skills.

In collaboration with LUX Tennis, the resort offers a diverse range of tennis activities, from private one-on-one lessons to energetic group clinics, catering to all levels of players. Additionally, a Complimentary Meet & Greet session provides fans with the chance to take photos, engage in conversation with Bartoli, and hear about her inspiring journey from professional player to tennis icon.

Marion Bartoli is a celebrated former professional tennis player from France, known for her unique playing style and remarkable career achievements. She captured the prestigious Wimbledon Championships singles title in 2013, becoming the sixth player in the Open Era to win the title without dropping a set. Bartoli was also a Wimbledon finalist in 2007 and reached the semifinals at the French Open in 2011. Throughout her career, she earned seven singles and three doubles titles on the WTA Tour. Recognised for her unconventional approach, she played with both hands on her forehand and backhand, distinguishing her from traditional players. Bartoli reached her career-high ranking of World No. 7 on January 30, 2012, and returned to this ranking on July 8, 2013, following her Wimbledon victory.

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Ayada Maldives introduces the sleek Jet Car experience

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Ayada Maldives, renowned for its luxury experiences and stunning oceanic paradise, has introduced an exhilarating new way to explore the island’s turquoise waters: the Jet Car. This innovative, sports-car-inspired watercraft offers guests the ultimate blend of luxury and adventure, providing a one-of-a-kind experience in the Maldivian seas.

The Ayada Maldives Jet Car is more than just a ride; it represents an unforgettable thrill. Designed to resemble a sleek sports car, this watercraft glides effortlessly over the lagoon, offering an exhilarating way to explore the island’s pristine waters in style. Perfect for adventure seekers and luxury enthusiasts alike, the Jet Car presents an unmatched opportunity to experience the breathtaking views and vibrant marine life of the Maldives from an entirely new perspective.

Guests embarking on the Jet Car adventure will feel the excitement as they cruise through Ayada’s stunning waters, creating waves and turning heads along the way. This unique watercraft is not only a visual spectacle but also easy to operate, making it accessible for both experienced water sports enthusiasts and those new to water-based adventures.

The Jet Car experience is available for booking at Ayada Maldives’ Watersports Center, with prices starting from $249 per ride. Each ride promises to be a highlight of any guest’s stay, providing an unbeatable blend of adrenaline and beauty that captures the essence of the Maldives.

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One&Only Reethi Rah welcomes top tennis talents Iga Swiatek and Ugo Humbert for exclusive clinics

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One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives is offering tennis enthusiasts of all levels and ages a unique chance to meet and play with two of the world’s top players this November. In collaboration with the global tennis management company LUX Tennis, the resort will host Iga Swiatek, currently ranked No. 2, and Ugo Humbert, currently ranked No. 14, starting from November 21. The event will feature world-class showcases of their skills through clinics, private lessons, and exhibition matches at the exclusive private island resort.

Iga Swiatek, known for her aggressive, all-court play style, powerful serve, and exceptional speed, held the No. 1 ranking globally until recently. Originally from Poland and a favourite on the WTA Tour, she has won an impressive 22 singles titles, including the 2023 WTA Finals and ten WTA 1000 titles.

Ugo Humbert, celebrated for his strong serve and attacking approach, reached his career-high singles ranking of No. 13 in March 2021. Representing France, Humbert has shown his prowess across various ATP tours and ITF circuits, with a remarkable record of six ATP Tour titles from six finals.

The exciting visits of Iga and Ugo add to the tennis program at One&Only Reethi Rah, supported by resident LUX Tennis professionals. Guests can enjoy private lessons and friendly matches on the resort’s superb facilities, which include two floodlit tennis courts and a padel court, all set amidst the stunning Maldivian landscape.

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