Mangaluru: The city is all set to host Indian Open of Surfing – 2016 on the shores of Sasihithlu beach, Mangaluru, on May 27 to 29. The event will be jointly organised by Mantra Surfing club, Kanara Surfing and Water Sports Promotion Council, Surfing Federation of India and Karnataka Tourism Department.

In a press conference held at DC office on Wednesday, President of Surfing Federation India, Kishore said that the event will be inaugurated by Minister of Tourism and Medium and Large Industries, R V Deshpande on May 27.

“About 85 participants have already registered their names online. We expect 15 more to register on May 27. We have fixed very nominal entry fees for the participants. For Indian categories it will be Rs 200-500 and for open category it is Rs 2000,” he said.

He further said that, there are 15-20 participants from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, which shows that the local people are also interested in these types of adventure sports.

Deputy Commissioner A B Ibrahim released t-shirts printed with the slogan and logo of the event.

Ibrahim said that, Rs 40 lakh is the total estimated cost. Tourism Department of Karnataka has provided Rs 5 lakh for this event.

“During the three days of the event, special training will be provided to students to learn how to surf in the sea water for free, in the back waters of Sasihithlu beach. Transportation will be provided from the National Highway to the public,” he added.

ADC Kumar, Mantra Surfing Club Members and others were present.