ISA World Surfing Games

The International Surfing Association announced the 2019 World Surfing Games will be held in Japan. This marks the first time the event will be used to directly qualify surfers for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.

The World Surfing Games features some of the Championship Tour’s best surfers, including John John Florence and Stephanie Gilmore, and are often touted as the premiere surfing event in the world. The event brings together surfers from all over the world, including countries like Iran, Sweden, Brazil and the United States. With the Olympic committee putting a cap at only two surfers per country, per gender, to represent each country, you can bet competitors are going to go all out.

The Games are spread across nine days Sept. 7–15, and feature competitions for both women and men. The opening day Parade of Nations is a highlight of the Games and is typically followed by an Opening Ceremony. The women then kick off the event over the next three days before focus shifts to the men. During the Games there’s plenty to keep spectators busy when not watching competitors surf. The event often features live musical acts, food and family-friendly games. Of course, the bars are also packed around town when the World Surfing Games begin.

Even if you’re not a huge fan of surfing, it’s a great opportunity to dip your toes in the water and learn all about the sport. Or, you could spend the time exploring the wonderful city of Miyazaki, Japan.