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Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2012 Begins

Published

12 years ago

August 31, 2012

Maldives Promotion House – In an, ’80s flashback, legendary surfers Mark ‘Occy’ Occhilupo (Aus), Tom Curren (USA), Damien ‘Dooma’ Hardman (Aus) and Martin ‘Pottz’ Potter (GB) relived their historic rivalries with the same intensity on the first day of the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2012. Rounding out the ensemble cast is 2007 ASP Longboard champion Phil Rajzman (Brz).

On day one of the competition, all five former world champions dueled it out in the single-fin division in beautiful four-foot, offshore surf at Sultan’s Point, Maldives.

After a solid morning of competition, the final featured Hardman versus Potter. From the outset it was as if the two rivals hadn’t missed a beat from their heyday. Potter surfing with the raw aggression that made him one of the most feared surfers in his heyday, while Hardman applied his calculated, strategic and vertical approach that led him to two world titles. After a back and forth duel, ultimately it was Hardman that edged out Potter for the single-fin victory.

“I thought it would have been more relaxed out there but it reverted to the old days, it was a bit scary,” said Hardman post single-fin victory.

“Everyone got competitive, but it was good surfing against those guys again, they are all still surfing great,”

“And I finally got ‘Pottz’ back from when he beat me at Bells Beach in 1989, that was the last time we competed against each other,” added 46 year-old Hardman.

Hardman, who claimed USD3000 for the win joked.

“It’s the first prize money I have won in 12 years so I can put pro-surfer on my departure card now.”

Potter, 46, who held the lead with five minutes remaining, admitted to a priority error which Hardman utilized to lock in a 7.10 score and claimed victory.

“You can never make a mistake when surfing against ‘Dooma’, he will capitalize on it every time,” said Potter, who won USD1000 for the runner-up placing.

Enroute to the final, Hardman narrowly edged out a fluid Curren in semifinal one.

“It was like old times, it was really good, except that I lost my heat,” said Curren.

“I was really trying to surf like Cheyne Horan, back in 1981 he had his designs really together so I was trying to do the same top to bottom surfing as he did back then,” added Curren.

The high scoring second semi saw Potter take an early lead with a heat high 9.07 ride. Occhilupo quickly answered back with an 8.10 but fell short on the siren to end his winning run in the Maldives.

“It wasn’t the result I was hoping for but it was good to see ‘Dooma’ get a win after his run of bad luck here last year,” said Occhilupo.

“We still have a few divisions to go so it’s not over yet” added Occhilupo.

The inaugural event, held in 2011, was a clean sweep for ‘Occy’ who won all three divisions of Single Fin, Twin Fin and Thrusters, before defeating world longboard champion Josh Constable (Aus), 30, in the Grand Champions Final to take home $19,000 of the $25,000 purse on offer.

The Four Seasons Explorer luxury catamaran provided the ultimate headquarters for the day as surf guide organization Tropicsurf coordinated the iconic tournament. With three-decks and 39 metre (128 foot) on offer for competitors, event crew and spectators, luxury was the call of the day.

Starting the event was the single-fin era (1970’s), to be followed on day two, the twin-fin (late ’70s and early ’80s), and ultimately finished by the Thruster (’80s onwards) division. With a $25,000 USD prize purse up for grabs, the all-star cast have spent their down time living it up at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Kuda Huraa.

On his road to his three world championships, Curren’s clashes with young, upstart Mark Occhilupo became the stuff of legend. To this day, any surfer worth his or her salt has these shattering moments engrained in the lore of the sport as they were plastered across magazine pages and immortalized in videos.

Unfortunately 2005 ASP Women’s World Champion Chelsea Hedges was forced to withdraw after suffering a collapsed lung while training for the event.
The surf forecast looks promising throughout the week-long waiting period and the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy looks to add to its already historic legacy. Tropicsurf organizers will reassess conditions again tomorrow morning for a 7am call for the Twin Fin Division.

For the latest updates on the event, visit: www.surfingchampionstrophy.com

RESULTS

Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2012 Single Fin
FINAL
Damien Hardman (Aus) 13.43 def. Martin Pottter (GB) 13.07
SEMI-FINAL RESULTS
SFl Hardman 13.90 Tom Curren (USA) 13.16
SF2 Potter 16:40 Mark Occhilupo (Aus) 15:57
ROUND ONE RESULTS
HT1Tom Curren (USA) 13.66, Mark Occhilupo (Aus) 9.77, Damien Hardman (Aus) 9.67
HT2 Martin Potter (GB) 15.83 Damien Hardman (Aus) 15.74 Phil Rajzman (Brz) 11.53

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Dive into conservation: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi introduces snorkelling with a purpose

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1 day ago

December 21, 2024

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Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has introduced an exciting new activity for ocean enthusiasts: Conservation Snorkelling. Led by the resort’s resident marine biologist, Mohamed Shah, this immersive experience allows participants to contribute to marine conservation efforts while exploring the vibrant underwater ecosystem of the Maldives. Combining education, exploration, and action, the initiative offers an enriching opportunity for visitors of all ages.

Participants engage in collecting critical data on coral health and fish populations using underwater fish guides, coral health charts, and writing slates, while learning to identify various fish species. They assess reef conditions and contribute to the protection of the local marine environment. The findings are then discussed with Mohamed Shah, providing deeper insights into the marine life of the Iru Fushi lagoon and house reef.

This activity is a key component of Sun Siyam Cares, the resort’s initiative focused on environmental protection and community support. Families, young couples, and other guests can participate in global conservation efforts through the Coral Watch citizen science project. The activity is open to strong swimmers aged eight and above who feel comfortable snorkelling.

“At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, we strive to protect the stunning natural environment around us,” said Abdullah Atham, Resort Manager. “Through activities like Conservation Snorkelling, we encourage guests to explore and actively contribute to ocean conservation.”

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Game, set, paradise: Petra Kvitová and Hideaway Beach Resort elevate luxury sports experiences

Published

3 days ago

December 19, 2024

m@ldives

Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa recently hosted legendary tennis player Petra Kvitová, captivating guests with her remarkable presence and inspiring passion for tennis. During her stay, the two-time Wimbledon champion conducted exclusive tennis classes, giving guests a rare opportunity to learn from one of the world’s top athletes.

Petra Kvitová, a celebrated Czech tennis star, has had an illustrious career highlighted by two Grand Slam titles and numerous accolades on the WTA Tour. Known for her powerful left-handed game and extraordinary resilience, she has inspired fans worldwide. Her tennis classes at Hideaway were dynamic and filled with invaluable insights, creating memorable experiences for tennis enthusiasts and guests alike.

The festive season at the resort commenced with Padel professional Hernan Flores offering Padel lessons for both guests and staff, followed by consecutive tennis workshops led by tennis stars Petra Kvitová and Elena Vesnina. Both athletes conducted specialised tennis sessions for adults and children, helping participants enhance their skills and deepen their appreciation for the sport.

Nestled in the pristine beauty of the Maldives, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is renowned for its exceptional service, luxurious villas, and world-class amenities. Boasting immaculate beaches and exclusive experiences, the resort provides an idyllic escape for discerning travellers. With professional tennis courts and wellness facilities, including a Bali-inspired spa and in-house yoga instruction, Hideaway offers tennis enthusiasts the perfect setting to refine their game while enjoying the serene paradise.

As one of the largest resorts in the Maldives, located in the remote Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway offers an extensive range of activities. These include a 5-hole golf putting green, an indoor golf simulator, Padel courts, indoor badminton, table tennis, and a state-of-the-art gym. Guests can also explore the island’s lush vegetation and scenic pathways by bicycle, combining leisure with exercise. For joggers, the island features excellent routes, approximately 1.4 kilometres long and 500 meters wide, providing a natural and invigorating fitness option.

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As an award-winning luxury resort, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa continues to set the standard for recreation and relaxation in the Maldives. It offers guests more than just a vacation—delivering an unparalleled hideaway experience.

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Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives presents Active Escapes 2025

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m@ldives

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced the return of the Active Escapes retreats in 2025. The week-long Active Escapes Maldives Festival will be held from 27 April to 4 May 2025 at the private island resort. This event is set to be the largest Active Escapes event of the year, attracting those who enjoy combining energetic recreation with a serene holiday atmosphere. Prices for the retreat start from US$2,600++ per person, twin share.

Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, expressed excitement about collaborating with Active Escapes again in 2025. “The week-long retreat-style festival offers a unique mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s perfect for individuals who prioritise health and fitness while on vacation or are looking to start fresh,” she said.

Garrett further noted, “It’s not a boot camp where you feel deprived of all the enjoyable aspects. On an Active Escapes retreat, guests can indulge in delicious cuisine prepared by the resort’s talented chefs and enjoy an impressive drinks list. The concept is to work out hard during the day and reward yourself in the evening.”

Active Escapes curates experiences that cater to a wide range of preferences, from water-based activities like snorkelling and kayaking to scuba diving and more. In addition to aqua-centric pursuits, there is also time for holistic well-being. This includes yoga sessions against the backdrop of breathtaking sunrises or sunsets, visiting the Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala in the resort gardens, or simply taking a moment to relax and reflect by the beach with the soothing sounds of the waves. Active Escapes emphasises both the thrill of leisure pursuits and group fitness activities, as well as the tranquility and balance that can be achieved by embracing nature’s beauty and being present in this island paradise.

The Active Escapes Maldives Festival 2025 is all about having fun and attracting people from all around the world. It’s not solely for fitness enthusiasts; on the contrary, it offers a welcoming environment where the goal is for participants to leave a bit fitter than when they arrived in the Maldives, although the ultimate decision on participation level is up to them. There are varying degrees of difficulty in the program to ensure that those seeking a more intense workout feel challenged, while those needing a less intense workout are well catered for.

Active Escapes are particularly popular with solo travellers, who make up half of their bookings globally. The main age group is 20-40 years, although there have been guests in their late 50s on occasion.

The seven-night Active Escapes Maldives Festival 2025 hosts have been confirmed as the highly popular Peter Day and Nathan Ryles. ‘Second Release’ Packages start from US$2,600 per person twin share (excluding flights) and US$3,500 for a single room, and include: