From Desert Ripples to Asian Games Ambitions
Whether you're looking for the perfect swell in the middle of a desert or watching the next generation of surfers rise from unexpected places, the surf world never sleeps. We've rounded up a few stories that are catching our attention this week.
Surfing Hits the Desert: Wavegarden's Newest Frontier
Imagine being able to practice your aerials without ever seeing the ocean. That's becoming a reality in the Coachella Valley. Wavegarden is making waves—literally—with the opening of DSRT Surf, the second major wave pool in the U.S. This isn't just a basic pool; it's a high-tech machine capable of churning out 1,000 waves per hour with over 60 different variations. Local surfer Jacob 'Zeke' Szekely mentioned that he 'never imagined I would be testing aerial waves in the middle of the desert' and praised the facility as 'the best wave pool in the world.' If you're looking to level up your game without the commute to the coast, you might want to keep an eye on this one, as sessions are expected to start as low as $60 per hour as reported by The Inertia.
Rising Stars: Bangladesh's Push for Glory
On the other side of the globe, the surf scene is expanding in ways we never thought possible. In Bangladesh, a nation traditionally obsessed with cricket, surfers are fighting for respect on the international stage. Mohammad Mannan and Fatima Akhter are among the determined athletes preparing for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan. For Akhter, the motivation is simple: 'The feeling is impossible to describe' when she successfully rides a wave. Despite facing cultural stigmas and limited resources, these surfers are proving that the ocean is a universal language. You can read more about their incredible journey over at The Daily Star.
Stay Safe: California's Sneaker Waves
Finally, a quick heads-up for anyone planning a trip to the California coast. Lifeguards in areas like Carmel-by-the-Sea are issuing warnings about 'neaker waves' and strong rip currents. These waves can appear out of nowhere and pull even seasoned locals off their feet. As state lifeguard Joe Stoffers warned, 'People not understanding the conditions and understanding this is a wild place that plays by its own rules, you have to know what's going on.' Always keep an eye on your surroundings and stay close to the lifeguards according to Channel 3000.
Stay stoked, stay safe, and we'll see you out the back!
