Dubai: Emirati surfer Mohammad Rahma will make his second international appearance when he competes in the Pantin Classic Galicia Pro in Spain next month.
The 28-year-old from Dubai became the first person from the region to compete at the International Surfing Association (ISA) World Surfing Games in his international debut in Ponta Rocas, Peru, last October, where he finished 22nd out of 90 competitors.
Now he returns to the waves in Spain from September 1-6, as part of the global World Qualifying Series, which consists of 200 surfers all vying to qualify for the World Surfing League.
“For me it’s all about the sport I love,” he said. “And being able to compete on an international level really brings awareness to the UAE and the growing surf culture that I’m proud to be part of.
“My dream is to see more Emiratis learning how to surf as well as competing in international events. We have perfect conditions to learn here in the Emirates and I’m dedicated to promote surfing to my fellow country men and women.”
Carl de Villiers, founder of Surf Shop Arabia, who sponsor Rahma, said: “We cannot be more proud of Mohammad. He’s been surfing for only a few years and learnt right here in the UAE. He’s surfed really big waves all over the world and has held his own well. His participation in the ISA World Games in Peru last year was a highlight for the whole surfing community in the UAE. He flew the Emirati flag with pride and it was a monumental step for Emirati surfing in this region.”
