The third annual national junior surfing championship began at the Raalhugandu surf area in Malé, featuring competitions across three age groups: under 18, under 16, and under 14. Heats in all divisions launched on the first day of the event, showcasing promising talent in each age category.
The under 14 division includes eight competitors, with two initial heats completed. In the first heat, Yaseen Ahmed Nashid took the lead with an impressive 11 points, while Ahmed Rafaan Rauoof followed with 4.33 points. The second heat saw Nooh Mohamed Dhuneim Irushad claim the top spot with 6.73 points, followed by Ahmed Aal Adil with 3.80 points. Competitors placing first and second in their heats will progress to the quarterfinals, while Mohamed Ahil Ibrahim, Sharif Shaair, Shameen Sharumeel Naseer, and Hussain Azaan Ismail will compete again in the second round for another shot at advancing.
In the under 16 division, which has the largest group of participants, four heats were held. Yaseen Ahmed Nashid scored 10.50 points in the first heat, securing his place in the next round. Mohamed Inaan Abdul Hannaan scored 13 points to win the second heat, while Kayaan Abdulla Areef topped the third heat with a leading score of 13.66 points. The final heat winner, Yoosuf Kayaan Hamdhaan, scored 8.23 points.
The under 18 category includes 10 surfers, with standout performances from Sayyid Salahuddeen, who scored 11.50 points in the first heat, and Kayaan Zaki, who triumphed in a close competition with 12.83 points. The day’s third heat concluded with Ahmed Luzein achieving victory at 9.57 points, leaving Inaan and Viyaash Ahmed behind.
With skillful performances already unfolding, the tournament continues to spotlight the young surfers aiming to make their mark in the Maldivian surfing scene.