Surfers Gear Up for Paris Olympics' Teahupo'o Surfing Competition

The stage is set for the highly anticipated surfing competition at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Tahiti, as surfers prepare to conquer the world-famous waves of Teahupo'o.

As the countdown to the 2024 Summer Olympics approaches, surfers, residents, and Olympic organizers in Tahiti, French Polynesia, eagerly anticipate the start of the surfing competition at the iconic reef break of Teahupo'o.

The conditions are expected to favor the athletes, according to officials from the International Surfing Association (ISA), promising exciting and challenging waves throughout the competition. This could boost the decision to hold surfing competitions thousands of miles away from the host city, a bold move that has generated both excitement and skepticism.

Surfers Gear Up for Paris Olympics' Teahupo'o Surfing Competition

"We didn't know if the IOC would have the stomach for that," said ISA President Fernando Aguerre. "But we reviewed a lot of the options, and it was clear that staying in European France meant a disaster for the waves."

Surfers have been taking advantage of exclusive access to the world-renowned waves of Teahupo'o during training sessions, familiarizing themselves with the unique and formidable conditions. Many of the competitors have prior experience riding these heavy waves, adding to the anticipation.

Surfers Gear Up for Paris Olympics' Teahupo'o Surfing Competition

The forecast promises favorable conditions for the duration of the competition, while the beaches around Hossegor, the top French surf zone, may face less ideal conditions. Aguerre expressed confidence in the decision to hold the event in Teahupo'o, despite the logistical challenges.

"The IOC and the Olympic Committee understood the challenge, but I believe the rewards will be huge," he added. "We know the waves will be amazing, so we expect great performances."

Surfers Gear Up for Paris Olympics' Teahupo'o Surfing Competition

Surfing is anticipated to take center stage once again in 2028 when the Summer Olympics return to Los Angeles. Aguerre hinted at potential locations for the event, including Huntington Beach or Trestles near San Clemente.

Meanwhile, preparations in Teahupo'o include the construction of a floating Olympic village, housing some of the competitors, and an Olympic judges' tower in the ocean. Residents have also been busy sprucing up the town, cleaning debris, extending business hours, and creating welcoming signs for visitors.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.