New event added to the 2024 Paris Olympics - Surfing

The Origin of Surfing

The origin of surfing can be traced back to around 1000 AD in the Pacific Polynesian Islands, especially Hawaii, which is widely recognized as the cradle of surfing. In that era, surfing was not only a way for local residents to entertain themselves, but also contained profound spiritual and social significance. In terms of entertainment, surfing competitions are popular, where people bet on running the farthest, fastest, or catching the biggest waves, enjoying the passion and challenges brought by the waves. On a spiritual level, surfing is closely linked to ritual ceremonies. When people choose surfboard wood, they perform offerings and rituals to pray for the blessings of the waves. At the social level, surfing is a symbol of class rule, with certain surf spots strictly reserved for the elite class, while civilians strive for respect and social status by participating in surfing competitions and performances.

The Rise of Modern Surfing

In the 20th century, surfing rapidly spread worldwide. Around 1908, surfing was introduced to Europe and America; Around 1960, it spread to Asia again. As a pioneer of modern surfing, Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku vigorously promoted surfing after winning the 100 meter swimming championship at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, which first emerged in California, USA and later spread worldwide. In 1962, the first World Surfing Championships were held in Manley, Australia, marking surfing as an international competitive sport.

The Advancement of Technology and Business

After World War II, lightweight plastic surfboards emerged, greatly promoting the popularity of surfing. At the same time, with the advancement of technology, surfing equipment is constantly upgrading, and surfing teaching is becoming more intelligent. The commercialization of surfing events is also increasing, attracting a large number of sponsors and spectators, bringing enormous commercial value to the local tourism industry and economic development.

Surfing has become an Olympic sport

Surfing became an official competition event for the first time at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. This decision was approved by the International Olympic Committee after years of advocacy and promotion. After the Tokyo Olympics, surfing continued to be a competitive event at the Olympics and reappeared at the 2024 Paris Olympics! The competition will be held from July 27th to August 5th, 2024 at Tiahup Beach in Tahiti, French Polynesia. The competition features both men's and women's short board events, and all surfers have shown excellent performances

Tahiti Island, French Polynesia

In the next article, FlowLife will showcase the latest technological products in surfing, making it a simple thing to surf without being constrained by the sea. We can enjoy surfing to the fullest!