Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Tuesday handed over prizes to winners of the Asian Surfing Championship 2025 that concluded in Mamallapuram. The Tamil Nadu government has been financially supporting this event for the past four years. The Deputy CM said that for the first time in Indian Surfing history, Indian surfer Ramesh Budihal won a medal at the Asian Surfing Championship. “We are proud that, it happened on the shores of  our own Tamil Nadu”. 

“Our very own Kishore from Kovalam achieved the incredible feat of reaching the semifinals, while Srikanth, also from Kovalam, advanced to the quarterfinals. In the Under-18 Boys event, 13-year-old Harish, also from Kovalam, made it to the quarterfinals—an exceptional accomplishment for someone of his age. Beyond India’s achievements, the championship showcased the world-class performances from across Asia,” Mr. Udhayanidhi said. 

Korea’s Kanoa Heejae, 17, claimed a double crown by winning both the Men’s Open and Boys Under-18 titles, the Deputy CM said. He also appreciated Japan’s Anri Matsuno, who emerged as the Women’s Open champion. This year’s event brought together 112 surfers from 19 countries, supported by 60 officials, including 25 judges and event officials. Minister T.M. Anbarasan, legislators S.R. Raja, I. Karunanithi and senior officials were also present.