The International Surfing Association (ISA) has welcomed Norway as its newest Member Federation, further driving the global expansion of the sport.
Global development is a key element of the ISA’s strategy and the consistent growth and reach amongst young people is a driving force behind the ISA’s ambitions of making Surfing an Olympic sport.
Stadt Landet, one of Norway’s picturesque Surfing backdrops. Photo: Hallvard Kolltveit
Filled with youthful values and energy, Surfing has a unique ability to connect with young people around the world. It is hoped that providing more Surfing opportunities and better access to equipment and facilities for young people can help instill Surfing’s core values of excellence, respect, fair-play and innovation.
With a rugged coastline and spectacular Fjords, Norway has many untouched Surf and StandUp Paddle spots that are drenched in natural beauty. Led by President Tore Kramer, the Norwegian Surfing Club is aiming to continue its development under the guidance of the ISA and boost the growth of Surfing amongst young people in the country.
Norway will also send an athlete to the inaugural ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championship Presented by Challenged Athletes Foundation, Hurley, Stance and the City of San Diego, which takes place in La Jolla, California this week. Team Norway is also expected to make its debut at the 2015 VISSLA ISA World Junior Surfing Championship, October 11-18 in Oceanside, California.
Luca Guichard surfing in Norway. Photo: Hallvard Kolltveit
Fernando Aguerre, ISA President, said:
“Surfing continues to grow worldwide and the addition of Norway as a new member is testament to the ISA’s global development strategy. There are 35 million surfers globally who participate in more than 100 countries and our aim is to spread the sport even further by providing better access to Surfing opportunities and equipment for more people around the world.
“With its unique culture, expressive nature and special connection with young people, Surfing is a sport that excites, thrills and captures the imagination of participants and fans from all corners of the world and backgrounds. Together, these factors are what fuel our ambition to place our wonderful sport and inspirational athletes on the greatest sporting stage at the Olympic Games.”
Tore Kramer, Norweigan Surfing Club President, said:
“We are delighted to join the ISA and to have access to ISA programmes and the many other benefits that come with our membership. We believe this is vital for the future growth of our organisation and the development of Surfing in Norway. We also believe that the ISA World Championships are the best stage for competitive Surfing and our athletes are looking forward to taking part in many world class events in the years ahead.”