Hainan Wanning Riyue Bay Int’l Surfing Festival kicks off

The 8 National Teams arrived with class, showcasing their countries flags and colors in their team uniforms. The ceremony kicked-off with the presentation of each delegation as hundreds of local Chinese that were in attendance greeted them with a welcoming applause. It was followed by the “Sands of the World” ceremony, where each country carried sand from their local beach and poured it into a glass container on stage symbolizing the peaceful gathering of nations through the love of surfing.

"I’m totally honored and excited to welcome all of you to China, land of legendary culture and wisdom, and starting last year, a surfing destination known for its great waves and beaches,” remarked ISA Vice President Alan Atkins on behalf of ISA President Fernando Aguerre. Aguerre was unable to be in China due to the expected birth of his baby daughter. “As president of the ISA, and in the name of the 35 million surfers around the world, I would like to extend our gratitude to our great partners, Womei Media, and to the governments of China, the Province of Hainan, the City of Wanning and all the people of China. It is my deepest hope that all the visitors go home as ambassadors of the great people of China and its culture.”