Punta Rocas prepares for the 2023 Youth Surfing South American Championship in December.

The High-Performance Center (CAR) of Punta Rocas is preparing to become the venue for the fourth edition of the South American Junior Surfing Championship, an event that highlights the importance of surfing for Peru on the international stage. This championship, organized by the National Surfing Sports Federation (FENTA) with the support of the Peruvian Institute of Sport (IPD), will take place from December 6 to 9 and promises to bring together the best young surfers from the region. The categories to be contested include Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18, encompassing both male and female divisions. The history of surfing in Peru is rich and significant. From the first golden generation that emerged on the beaches of Barranco and Miraflores, the sport has been a source of national pride. Peru's connection to surfing dates back to ancient cultures like the Moche and Chimu, where the use of the Caballito de Totora for fishing and rituals establishes a deep bond with the sea. This cultural legacy has remained alive and has transformed into a tradition that continues to achieve success. Peruvian surfing has managed to stand out in international competitions, as demonstrated by Alonso Correa at the recent Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where he finished in a commendable fourth place. Such performances underscore the need to promote surfing from the grassroots level, which is precisely what FENTA aims to achieve with the organization of the South American Junior Championship. This event will not only serve to reward the best young surfers but also to inspire future generations. Expectations are high for the Peruvian team, which presents itself as the two-time regional champion. After winning the first edition of the South American Championship in Colombia in 2021 and the championship in Mar del Plata in 2022, the young Peruvian surfers are motivated to make history once again at home. All eyes will be on figures like Bastian Arévalo, Alejandro Bernales, and Sofía Artieda, who have already proven their worth by winning gold medals at the 2023 South American Championship. The competition in Punta Rocas will attract the best young surfing talents from countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Venezuela, and Uruguay. Each of these countries brings with it a rich surfing tradition, ensuring that the event will be as competitive as it is exciting. The young surfers will not only be fighting for gold but also for the prestige that comes with winning in front of their home crowd. It is crucial to mention that the South American Junior Surfing Championship is not only a platform for young talents to shine but also acts as a springboard for those aspiring to compete on larger stages, such as the World Surf League (WSL). Surfers like Catalina Zariquiey and Arena Rodríguez, although they are not yet participating in this junior event, are making their mark in WSL tournaments, showing that the future of Peruvian surfing is promising. The organization and execution of this championship reflect FENTA's commitment to the growth of surfing in the country. The federation has been working tirelessly to create a conducive environment for the development of these young athletes, ensuring that the competition conditions are optimal and that the event becomes a celebration of surfing and Peruvian culture. Surfing in Peru is not just a sport; it is a way of life that connects people with the ocean and its traditions. With events like this, the aim is to continue the legacy that began centuries ago, strengthening the cultural identity of the country and fostering a sense of community among surfers. In conclusion, the South American Junior Surfing Championship is not just another competition on the sports calendar. It is a symbol of unity, effort, and passion for surfing. Therefore, the success of this event will depend not only on the results in the water but also on the spirit of camaraderie and love for the sport that unites all participants and spectators. The next generation of surfers is ready to make waves and take the Peruvian flag to new heights.