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Taj Burrow lifts Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy for second year
Australian Taj Burrow has taken out his second consecutive Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy in perfect three-to-four foot waves at the right-hand reef of Sultans.
Burrow surfed an incredible event, taking out the Twin Fin and Thruster Division to make it to the Grand Final of the “world’s most luxurious surfing event”.
In the Grand Final on Sunday, Burrow came up against an in form Rob Machado. Machado had been looking dangerous all event, finishing first in the Single Fin and second on the Twin Fin. It was Burrow’s fast and critical surfing, however, that saw him take the overall win with a heat total of 16.73 (out of a possible 20).
“I’m so extremely excited, I’m just having the best time,” Burrow said.
“This is such an amazing event. I would have retired earlier if I knew this is what life would be like; it’s too good. I’m so stoked I got to come back here after a win last year. We get so spoiled at the Four Seasons Kuda Huraa and then to come just around the corner and have waves that are this good is such a treat. It’s an incredible place. Winning again is really special to me.”
Taj Burrow found a few drainers at Sultans on Finals Day. PHOTO/ TOM BENNETT
Burrow has not lost much of his competitive tenacity since retiring from the elite WSL Championship Tour (CT) a year ago. He consistently posted huge scores through all three divisions and into the grand final. In the final of the Thruster event, he even posted the only perfect 10-point ride of the event for a super deep tube ride.
“The waves were cooking for this whole event,” Burrow continued.
“The forecast wasn’t looking great so to score the waves we did was sick, even getting that barrelled today was a nice surprise. Everyone in this event surfs so amazingly I really had to surf out of my skin to win this thing. If I do get to come back next year I’ll be over the moon. It’s definitely one of the sickest events on the planet.”
Burrow belting a Sultans lip. PHOTO/ TOM BENNETT
Machado was returning to the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy for the second time. After failing to make the Grand Final in 2016, Machado returned with something to prove and it showed in his smooth yet aggressive attack. In the final, Machado posted a heat total of 14.93 and as the waves slowed he was unable to find the score he needed to take the lead.
“I have no complaints about finishing second,” Machado said.
“Today was actually super tight with who would make it into the Grand Final, so it was cool to watch it all play out. It was just great to come back here and have the Four Seasons Kuda Huraa experience again. The waves were so sick for the event as well, but it was always going to be hard to beat Taj. The guy is just so good.”
Rob Machado with his timeless style was a pleasure to watch all event. PHOTO/ TOM BENNETT
Finishing runner-up in the Thruster Division against Burrow was 2001 WSL Champion CJ Hobgood. The Floridian goofy foot was a standout all event but came up against a rampaging Burrow in the final. Hobgood was unable to get in a rhythm but was thankful to be apart of the Champions Trophy.
“I can’t believe I got to have this experience it’s definitely once in a lifetime,” Hobgood said.
“It was a shame I had such a bad heat in the final but I’m not too disappointed. It’s been great to see all of these old friends and hang out. Waking up in Kuda Huraa, the most perfect island, and then cruising on a boat for two minutes and you have waves like this is like a dream.”
CJ Hobgood finished runner-up in the thruster division on Day Three. PHOTO/ TOM BENNETT
Brazilian big wave inspiration Maya Gabeira put on her best performance of the event during the Thruster Division. The goofy foot came just short of a Semifinal berth but was over the moon to have been part of such a special event. She stated this week at the Four Seasons Maldives as a definite life highlight.
“This has been such an amazing time for us here in the Maldives,” Gabeira said.
Maya Gabeira on a sultans freight train. PHOTO/ SEAN SCOTT
“The Four Seasons Kuda Huraa experience has been like no other, just so luxurious. I don’t usually go on trips looking for fun size waves, but I’m glad I came here as the waves are so fun and playful. Surfing with all of the guys was so incredible. They are such amazing surfers and my heroes, so it was cool to compete against them. I’ve had the most amazing time at this event.”
Local wildcard Ismail ‘Kuda Issey’ Miglal had his best performance in thruster division posting a heat total of 12.50. He was not able to overcome Hobgood in his semi-final but, was stoked to have had the opportunity to surf with and against his surfing idols.
“This was the most amazing experience of my life,” Kuda Issey said.
“Staying in luxury and having my home breaks with no one else out was so cool. It was an honour to surf with my heroes. Watching them surf taught me a lot about my surfing and how I can improve. I loved the experience and will never forget it.”
Ismail ‘Kuda Issey’ Miglal having the time of his life at Sultans. PHOTO/ SEAN SCOTT
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.
Four Seasons Explorer, the Maldives’ ultimate surf vessel, returned to the event following a full interior refurbishment. The 39-metre catamaran proudly showcased its sleek new finishes and stylish soft furnishings across all three decks while hosting the contest.
Fans got up close to all of the action with onboard VIP passes, then continued 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.
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.
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.
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.
Featured
One&Only Reethi Rah welcomes top tennis talents Iga Swiatek and Ugo Humbert for exclusive clinics
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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