Chennai: The seventh edition of Covelong Point surf, music and yoga festival kick started today at Kovalam and will feature local and international surfers for a three day competition.

“The festival primarily aims to promote the sport of surfing and stand up paddle in India, spread the message of importance of good health and wellness,” said promoter of Covelong Point Arun Vasu at a press meet here on Thursday.

Former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, who is the festival’s brand ambassador since its inception, said he was happy that surfing is growing in India.

“India with its thousands of kilometres of shoreline and beaches is a natural haven for pursuing surfing as a sport. It is only a matter of time before we see surfing champions emerge from this country. The fact that surfing has emerged as one of the disciplines for the next Olympics will soon gain larger acceptance across the world,” Rhodes said.

A total of 200 of the country’s best surfers will compete in the national surfing challenge at this event. This biggest festival of surf, music and yoga will feature a full-fledged carnival area with over 50 stalls featuring unique products and specially-curated food stalls and trucks.

“The festival will bring to the participants the local village flea market, showcasing village products and fare. It will be a great opportunity for these various business establishments (such as hotels, resorts and restaurants) of the villages to promote their brands,” Arun added.

The promoters of the festival estimate 20,000 visitors at the event over the course of the weekend. Among local surfers, Murthy Megavan and Mukesh will be participating apart from several talented youngsters.

Those taking part in the event include 2018 champions, Karnataka’s 19-year-old Ramesh Budihal (juniors), and Puducherry’s Percival Fayon (open) and in the women’s event, defending champion, Sinchana Gowda (Karnataka) . There would be events in under-16 years, 16-28 years and men 29 years plus and for women. Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi would preside over the valedictory on Sunday.