Standup Paddle Challenge in Dubai

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Surfing was up right at the beginning of the eighth edition of SportAccord International Convention with International Surfing Association (ISA) President, Fernando Aguerre, starting his trip to Dubai by participating as guest VIP in the Opening Ceremony and competitor in the Surf Dubai Kandora SUP Challenge held on the Dubai's "Sunset Beach."

Dubai Surfing Club, recently recognized as a member of the ISA, organized the first ever SUP Surfing competition ever held in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates just one day before the start of the international sports federations´ biggest gathering, the SportAccord Convention. Aguerre, who recently took up Stand Up Paddling, took part in the competition.  The ISA President said: "This was a fantastic event put on by the team of the Dubai Surfing Club.  I gladly accepted their invitation to be a part of this cultural and entertaining surf challenge."

Also, regarding Dubai and its potential to become the Middle East's surfing mecca, Aguerre commented, "This is my first trip to Dubai and I am impressed by the dedication and enthusiasm of the young gentlemen that are leading the way for the Dubai Surfing Club.  This is a great place for building the sport of surfing."

Aguerre and newly appointed ISA´s Director General, Bob Mignogna, are focusing on the busy days of the SportAccord Convention. Over 1500 persons, including International Olympic Committee senior executives, International Federations Presidents, Executives and sports related stakeholders are gathered in Dubai to discuss the future of multi-sports events and the Olympic Games.  

About the International Surfing Association (ISA)
The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for Surfing. It was originally founded as the International Surfing Federation in 1964 and has been running world championships since 1964 and the Junior World Championships since 1980.

ISA membership includes the surfing National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of over 60 countries on six continents. Its headquarters are located in La Jolla, California. It is presided by Fernando Aguerre, first elected in 1994 in Rio, and re-elected six times since. The ISA's four Vice Presidents are Alan Atkins (Australia), Robin de Kock (South Africa), Mike Gerard (USA) and Karín Sierralta (Peru)