The Republic of Kiribati has joined the International Surfing Association (ISA). The country is composed of 32 islands with perfect and abundant waves and warm water.
Kiribati is located in the central tropical Pacific Ocean and has recently founded the Kiribati Surfing Association (KSA), led by Nicholas McDermott.
"We are very excited to be recognized internationally," said McDermott.
"It is the KSA’s primary objective to promote surfing throughout Kiribati as a healthy and competitive sport as well as to set up smaller clubs on each of the islands that have waves accessible by paddling out."
"Every two years, Kiribati holds a national sporting competition, and the KSA hopes that surfing will be included as an established local competitive sport. Ultimately, we hope to be able to achieve a thriving local surf scene."
Fernando Aguerre, president of the ISA, thinks, "it is great to know that a small country like Kiribati created its own surfing association and is looking forward to the growth of the sport in their nation."
"I am glad to know that they now have a government-recognized surfing association. We all expect them to make great progress as they have warm water and beautiful waves all year long. We are hoping to see them compete at an ISA World Championship soon."
Surfing is everywhere in Kiribati. The most consistent swell arrives at the Line Islands. Here you can find big and long breaks off Fanning and Kiritimati.
The Gilbert chain has some fickle waves that are not as easily accessible, but they can be great on the right day.