SUP FEST participant cites athlete shortage

In a Telegram channel of the Panda SUP Surfing Academy, it was reported that there is a shortage of people at the annual beach sports festival SUP FEST in Vladivostok. The post states that Vladimir, a representative of the PatroklClub Oceanic Rowing Club, shared this and suggested that the event might close due to a lack of participants.

The post«s author noted that the festival survives only thanks to large sponsors» investments, which cover only basic organizational costs, while prize money, judges« fees, and equipment purchases are possible due to the organizers» enthusiasm and entry fees.

Since the expected number of SUPers has not been seen over these two years, and athletes of our sport have so far signed up in very small numbers, holding such a celebration next year is in question. Seeing the situation in the country, I can assume that if such a festival ceases to exist, there may not be more people willing to start such a grand undertaking.

At the same time, there have been no official comments from the organizers regarding the problems and possible closure of the festival. The Surfing Academy appealed to concerned athletes and urged them to participate in the competitions. They are scheduled to take place on August 8–9.