Panamanian surfers compete in the ISA World Surfing Games

The ISA World Surfing Games returned to the French town of Biarritz for the first time since 1980 this year. The event aired live from May 20-28. Almost 250 surfers from 47 countries competed in what is often called Europe’s “California of Surfing.”

The number of surfers and countries competing were records for the event, with roots dating to 1964. Many attribute the surge of new surfing nations to the sport’s acceptance into the 2020 Olympics by the International Olympic Committee in August.

Among the competitors were six Panamanian surfers competing in both the men’s and women’s open. The Panamanian surf team included Juan Carlos “Oli” Gonzalez, Diego Salgado, Jhonny Alfonso Orlando Ortega competing in the men’s open. Competing in the women’s open were Samantha Alonso and Johanny Alfonso. Raul Stanford coached the team and Alirio Carles was the team manager.

Out of 47 teams Panama placed 30th with a total of 160 points. The top ranked country was France with 5120 points.