Canareef Resort Maldives achieved a historic milestone by hosting the 15th World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships & Electoral Congress 2024, a prestigious event that enhanced both the resort’s reputation and the Maldives’ prominence in international sports.

From November 5th to 11th, 2024, over 450 athletes and delegates from 41 countries gathered at Canareef Resort to compete in one of the year’s most significant bodybuilding events. The resort’s exclusive villas, lush tropical surroundings, and turquoise lagoons created an ideal setting for the competition, while its exceptional hospitality contributed significantly to the event’s success.

The championships’ opening ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Mr. Lawrence Leow, Chairman and CEO of Crescendas Group (owner of Canareef Resort Maldives), the High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, H.E. Munu Mahawar, and the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the Maldives, H.E. Ranga Goonawardena. Their presence underscored the importance of the event and Canareef’s commitment to delivering a memorable experience.

The event schedule included key moments that highlighted its significance:

• November 1-5: Arrival of Executive Council members, Sub-Committee Members, teams, delegates, and officials.
• November 6: Team Managers’ and Judges’ meetings, the WBPF Executive Council discussions, and the WBPF Electoral Congress.
• November 8/9: The Opening Ceremony marked the official start of the championships, drawing significant attention from audiences and media.
• November 10: The championships concluded with the Closing Ceremony and Final Prize Distribution, celebrating athletes’ achievements.

The Maldives National Bodybuilding Team delivered an impressive performance, winning three medals: two Gold and one Silver. Key highlights included:

• Shaheen Ibrahim Didi: Gold in Men’s Bodybuilding 55 Kg.
• Azneen Rashad: Gold in Sports Physique 170 cm.
• Yoosuf Ayaan Rizvee: Silver in Junior Men’s Bodybuilding up to 75 Kg.

Other notable performances included top placements by Mohamed Nahyan Khan, Shaalu Ibrahim, Abdulla Ahsan, and Ismail Shuau Abdulla in their respective categories.

In the team rankings, India won the Men’s Team Championship, Vietnam secured the Women’s Team Championship, and Saravanan Mani of India was named Overall Champion.

Datuk Paul Chua, President of the World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Federation, commended the event’s success and the resort’s warm hospitality. He remarked on the beauty of the island and expressed enthusiasm about returning to Canareef, even outside of championship events.

Ahmed Hamza, Director of Canareef Resort Maldives, expressed pride in hosting the event, emphasising its positive impact on Addu and the southern Maldives. Mohamed Jaish Ibrahim, AGM, lauded the teamwork and resilience that contributed to the event’s success.

Hosting the 15th World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships & Electoral Congress has firmly established Canareef Resort Maldives as a premier venue for international sports events. This accomplishment not only highlights the resort’s capabilities but also reinforces its status as a destination where luxury, hospitality, and world-class events converge.

Looking forward, Canareef Resort remains committed to hosting significant global events and welcoming guests to experience its unparalleled beauty, tranquility, and hospitality.

Siyam World and Sun Siyam Olhuveli have unveiled an exciting new attraction designed to provide guests with a high-speed, unforgettable adventure on the open water: the Jet Car. Now available at the water sports centres on both islands, these cutting-edge vehicles are tailored for thrill-seekers seeking an action-packed twist to their Maldivian getaway.

The Jet Cars feature a sleek, retro-inspired design that commands attention on the Maldivian waters. Boasting a vibrant ocean-blue finish and a streamlined aesthetic reminiscent of a vintage convertible, these watercraft combine classic charm with modern performance. Distinctive round headlights, a bold grill, and curved bodywork enhance their striking appearance, creating a visually captivating presence. Every detail, from the polished contours to the car-inspired dashboard, has been carefully crafted to deliver a unique blend of style and functionality, offering guests an unforgettable ride on the sea.

Equipped with a powerful Yamaha engine, the Jet Cars are built for speed and agility. Guests can race across the turquoise waters, effortlessly carving through the waves and leaving a trail of excitement behind. The intuitive controls ensure accessibility for all, whether seasoned water sports enthusiasts or first-time riders. Additionally, built-in Bluetooth speakers allow users to create a personalised soundtrack, elevating the experience with their favourite music.

The Jet Car experience offers more than just a ride; it’s an opportunity to immerse oneself in the freedom and exhilaration of the open sea. Surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Maldives, riders can feel the rush of wind, the warmth of the sun, and the thrill of gliding across pristine waters. This innovative adventure redefines how guests explore paradise, providing a memorable and dynamic way to enjoy one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.

LUX Tennis, a leading tennis management company, offers exclusive world-class tennis experiences for luxury hotels and private clients globally. Their signature LUX Tennis Star Events bring renowned tennis, padel, and pickleball celebrities to partner resorts, including 12 prestigious properties in the Maldives.

With over 30 LT Star Events held annually, LUX Tennis delivers an impressive lineup of tennis stars, allowing guests to experience world-class tennis in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. As a top tennis management company, LUX Tennis brings elite tennis stars to the Maldives, creating unforgettable experiences for guests. The upcoming events feature 12 distinguished tennis celebrities who will attend exclusive LT Star Events over the coming months.

Upcoming LUX tennis star events in the Maldives

• Holger Rune, Former World No. 4, at JOALI Maldives – November 13th – November 15th, 2024: Holger Rune, a 21-year-old tennis prodigy from Denmark, achieved a career-high ATP ranking of No. 4 in 2023. Known for his explosive, all-court game, he has claimed four ATP titles, including the 2022 Paris Masters 1000, and reached the finals of the Rome and Monte Carlo Masters 1000 tournaments, as well as the quarterfinals of Roland Garros and Wimbledon. Rune is one of the most exciting young talents on tour.
• Karolína Plíšková, Former World No. 1, at Sirru Fen Fushi, Maldives – November 10th – November 19th, 2024: Karolína Plíšková, from the Czech Republic, is known for her powerful serve and aggressive style. She reached No. 1 in the WTA rankings in July 2017 and has won several WTA titles, including the 2016 WTA Finals. Plíšková also reached the US Open final that same year and boasts a career-high doubles ranking of No. 11.
• Denis Shapovalov, Former World No. 10, at Jumeirah Maldives – November 10th – November 13th, 2024: Canadian tennis star Denis Shapovalov, who reached a career-high ATP ranking of No. 10, is celebrated for his explosive, aggressive style of play. Known for his iconic one-handed backhand, he has represented Canada in major tournaments and captivated fans since his breakthrough in 2017.
• Mirjam Björklund, Former World No. 123, at Jumeirah Maldives – November 10th – November 13th, 2024: Swedish professional Mirjam Björklund, known for her competitive spirit, achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 123 in 2023. She has multiple ITF titles to her name and continues to climb the rankings with her powerful, determined game.
• Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, Former World No. 21, at Patina Maldives – November 11th – November 17th, 2024: Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, a Spanish player who achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 21, is known for his tenacity and dynamic game. He has won several ITF and ATP Challenger titles, reached the quarterfinals of the 2021 French Open, and secured his first ATP doubles title at the 2020 Chile Open.
• Jiří Lehečka, Former World No. 23, at Sirru Fen Fushi – November 13th – November 23rd, 2024: Czech player Jiří Lehečka has reached a career-high singles ranking of No. 23. With an ATP title at the 2024 Adelaide International and multiple ATP Masters quarterfinals, he is recognised as one of the rising stars in global tennis.
• Iga Świątek, Current World No. 2, at One&Only Reethi Rah – November 14th – November 23rd, 2024: Polish tennis player Iga Świątek, who won the French Open in 2020 and 2022, became the first Polish player to secure a Grand Slam singles title. She also reached World No. 1 and is currently ranked No. 2. Renowned for her powerful baseline play, she is considered one of the best players of her generation.
• Ugo Humbert, Current World No. 14, at One&Only Reethi Rah – November 21st – November 23rd, 2024: Ugo Humbert, a French professional, is known for his powerful serve and aggressive playing style. He achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 13 in March 2021 and is currently ranked No. 14. Humbert’s impressive run to the finals of the 2024 ATP Masters 1000 in Paris boosted his position on the ATP ladder.
• Angelique Kerber, Former World No. 1, at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas – November 27th – December 8th, 2024: Angelique Kerber, a former World No. 1, has won three Grand Slam titles: the Australian Open, US Open, and Wimbledon. Known for her powerful game, Kerber is widely regarded as one of the sport’s greats.
• Marion Bartoli, Former World No. 7, at Siyam World, Maldives – December 9th – December 14th, 2024: Marion Bartoli, the 2013 Wimbledon champion, is known for her unique style and competitive prowess. She clinched her Wimbledon title without losing a set, solidifying her place in tennis history.
• Julia Görges, Former World No. 9, at Finolhu, Maldives – January 7th – January 14th, 2024: German tennis player Julia Görges, who achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 9 and No. 12 in doubles, enjoyed a standout career with seven WTA titles and a semifinal appearance at Wimbledon. She also represented Germany in the Fed Cup and the 2012 Olympics before retiring after a successful career.
• Wesley Koolhof, Former World No. 1 in Doubles, at Finolhu, Maldives – January 7th – January 14th, 2024: ATP doubles star Wesley Koolhof, a former World No. 1, has won 19 ATP doubles titles, including a 2023 Wimbledon title. Koolhof, a two-time US Open finalist and Davis Cup competitor, has also represented the Netherlands in two Olympic Games.