HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., Oct. 10, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- The 2006 Lost Energy Drink International Surfing Association (ISA) World Surfing Games return to the shores of Huntington Beach, Calif., from October 14-October 22, marking the first time the event has been held in North America since 1996. The ISA World Surfing Games are widely considered to be the "Olympics of surfing."
"As the ambassador of the Surf City USA(r) brand, Huntington Beach is the perfect location for the ISA World Surfing Games," says Doug Traub, president and CEO of the Huntington Beach Conference and Visitors Bureau. "Both represent a global community with a passion for the outdoor lifestyle and a respect for the world's oceans."
The games will be attended by the top surfing teams from 35 countries, such as Argentina, Guatemala, South Africa, Italy, Sweden, the United Kingdom and more. The opening ceremony on October 14 will feature the "Parade of Nations," beginning on the Huntington Beach Pier and continuing down Main Street, and the "Sands of the World" ceremony, where each country contributes sand from its beaches to a special box. Competitions will be in shortboard, longboard and bodyboard in both men's and women's categories. Gold, silver and bronze medals will be presented to top competitors on October 22 in a closing ceremony, in addition to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President's Trophy for the highest overall scoring team.
About Surfing America
Surfing America is the ISA-recognized National Governing Body (NGB) for surfing in the United States and is responsible for holding the official U.S.A. Championships and for selecting and fielding the official U.S.A. Surf Team. The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding, and surfriding. For more information on Surfing America and the ISA World Games, visit www.isasurf.com.
About the Huntington Beach Conference and Visitors Bureau
The Huntington Beach Conference and Visitors Bureau is the designated marketing organization representing Huntington Beach, California. One of the top Southern California vacation destinations featuring premier California beach resorts, Huntington Beach is the ideal location for a California family vacation, California weekend getaway or surfing trip. With eight and half miles of pristine California beaches, Huntington Beach is fast becoming a destination of choice for vacationers and business travelers alike. To plan your Surf City USA vacation or to learn more about Huntington Beach, visit the Huntington Beach Conference and Visitors Bureau Web site at www.surfcityusa.com or call 800-729-6232 for a free visitors guide.
Surf City USA is a registered mark of the Huntington Beach Conference and Visitors Bureau.
The Huntington Beach Conference and Visitors Bureau logo is available at http://www.primezone.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=2774