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Hardman, Curren and Henrique line-up for Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2013

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11 years ago

July 7, 2013

Maldives Promotion House – The first three contenders in this year’s Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy have now been announced. Defending champion Damien Hardman of Australia, second-timer Tom Curren of the United States, and new invitee Pedro Henrique of Brazil will all compete in the world-class boutique surfing contest at Four SeasonsResort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, now in its third successive year.

Running from August 26 to September 2, 2013, the elite annual event features six ex-world champions battling it out in a USD 25,000 showdown across three surfboard divisions: retro single-fins, twin-fins and modern thrusters.

News of Damien “Dooma” Hardman’s return to Maldivian shores has been hotly anticipated by all. Returning to the event for the third time – as the defending 2012 champion – Dooma is also dubbed “Iceman” due to his fierce concentration and fearless approach. A true surf master who has been riding the ocean waves since the 70s, his wave precision, tactical wizardry and prior knowledge of the Kuda Huraa waves give him a distinct advantage over his opponents.

Dooma admitted he was “thrilled” to be revisiting the island – and not just for the surf. “It’s great to be returning to Kuda Huraa’s luxurious surrounds that I’ll get to share with my wife Belinda, and she’s as excited as me,” he commented. “That being said, I’ll be gunning for the Champions Trophy and the USD 25,000 prize money for sure.”

Back for his second consecutive year in the championship, living surf icon and retro aficionado Tom Curren needs little introduction. The three-time world champion and true soul surfer has been revered worldwide since the mid-80s, and it’s his unequaled surfing style and unassuming nature that has secured him as one of the sport’s finest athletes. Ever the competitor, Curren is delighted to be returning to this year’s line-up following his very narrow defeat by Hardman in the thrilling 2012 contest.

Curren describes his 2012 experience, which he shared with his son Patrick, as “amazing and really fun.” This year, his travelling partner to Kuda Huraa will be his other son Francis, who is also a remarkable surfer.

This year’s contest also sees the arrival of first-timer Pedro Henrique from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, who honed his impressive high-paced skills riding Rio’s beach breaks as a boy. Trained by his father, Pedro’s prominence came in 2000 after winning the World Junior Championship in Hawaii, aged only 18. He became a competitor of the prestigious surfing World Tour in 2006, and a string of surfing accolades followed. Affectionately nicknamed “Pedrinho,” his natural fun-loving charm gives way to superhuman agility and seriously advanced manoeuvers that will be no joke for his more seasoned challengers. Recently, he achieved international acclaim in pro-kitesurfing, becoming triple world champion and Brazilian champion in 2012. Now based in Portugal, his attention has turned once again to his love of “pure” surfing.

Henrique is ecstatic to be competing in Kuda Huraa’s illustrious contest, revealing it was “great news” to be invited to the Surfing Championship Trophy. “I feel it’s a great honour to be competing with my idols – true surf legends.”

Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy is hosted aboard Four Seasons Explorer – the Maldives’ ultimate surf vessel. Organized in conjunction with luxury surf pioneers Tropicsurf, this year’s event will once again simultaneously feature Four Seasons Maldives Domestic Champions Trophy – a thrilling showcase of local talent that last year saw Hussain Areef, the country’s reigning national champion, scoop MVR 25,000.

Guests of Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa can catch all the action with day passes aboard Four Seasons Explorer or book an all-inclusive Group Surf & Stay (available from August 26 to September 2 for a minimum booking of five rooms or more for seven nights). In addition to competition day passes, full board and transfers, Group Surf & Stay includes 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.

Limited day passes will be available (at a fee) for non-package guests and members of the public wishing to view the event fromFour Seasons Explorer – call + 960 66 00 888 for rates.

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

Published

1 day ago

December 21, 2024

m@ldives

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.

Steve Cook, a fitness professional and former guest, remarked, “How often do you get a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, cycle along sand pathways, and run through lush tropical landscapes? Hideaway Beach Resort is not just a retreat—it’s a paradise for fitness and adventure enthusiasts looking to embrace challenges in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.”

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

Published

4 days ago

December 19, 2024

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: