### Baja California to Host Mexican Surf Open 2024
Everything is set for the second edition of the Mexican Surf Open in Baja California, scheduled for September 14 and 15, 2024, at the Rosarito Pier. Over a hundred competitors from both national and international scenes will participate, vying for an enticing prize pool across various categories in both male and female divisions.
This Thursday, the official presentation of the event took place, with several competitors in attendance. Many return this year, drawn by the excellent climatic conditions and the spectacular setting Rosarito offers, with its perfect waves for enthusiasts. The event promises to bring a significant economic boost to the state’s fifth municipality and is an opportunity to promote the sport in the region. Additionally, it offers an ideal moment to get to know more about this growing discipline in Baja California, particularly among children and young athletes aspiring to reach the Olympics.
This year’s categories include men’s shortboard (no age limit), women’s shortboard, and mixed bodyboard. The prizes for the first four places include a total pool of 180,000 pesos, distributed as follows: 36,000 pesos to the shortboard male champion, 18,000 pesos to the shortboard female champion, and 18,000 pesos to the bodyboard winner. Additional awards will go to the best athlete for the highest-scoring wave and the best “wipeout” of the tournament.
Currently, 100 competitors have registered, including notable figures like Nathan Díaz, one of Baja California’s top prospects; Kalani Favela, defending bodyboard champion; world-class surfer Alfonso Aguilar; experienced competitor Ana Laura González from Colima; Lilo González; Gael Jiménez; Rafael Pereira, aiming to defend his title; and Ezequiel García, among many others.
The press conference saw the presence of Antonio Otáñez, president of the State Surf Association; Fernanda Montoya, representative of Rosarito’s mayor; César Rivera, president of COTUCO; Silvia Dagnino, COTUCO director; and Laura Marmolejo Toscano, director of INDEBC. Three significant surf talents in Mexico also attended: Ezequiel García, semifinalist of the previous edition; Gael Jiménez, national team member; and Maya Mateja, the current champion of the Mexican Surf Open in Baja California and winner of the 2024 CONADE Nationals at just 15 years old.
The event is free and open to the family, with activities starting on Saturday at 7:00 am, and the award ceremony taking place on Sunday at 5:00 pm.
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### Surf’s Up in Mexico: A Look at Growing Popularity
Surfing has steadily gained traction in Mexico, with events like the Mexican Surf Open serving as vital catalysts for the sport’s growth. The competition not only showcases individual talent but also fosters a supportive community interested in surfing. Different regions of Mexico, particularly Baja California, have become hotbeds for developing young surfers who aspire to compete on the world stage, including the Olympics.
Apart from the high-profile events, grassroots programs and surf schools have mushroomed, contributing significantly to the sport’s increasing participation rates. The coastal geography of Mexico provides not just a conducive environment for surfing but also a scenic backdrop that attracts both local and international surfers.
The combination of government support, private sponsorships, and enthusiastic participation from athletes and fans alike suggests that surfing in Mexico is poised for a bright future. The recognition and awards garnered by young talents like Maya Mateja further underscore the potential and opportunities within this growing sport.
For more information and updates, stay tuned to TJGringo.com, your trusted source for all things surfing in Mexico.