By Delia Ruelas

Over 80 competitors gathered at the first surf qualifier held at Obrera Beach, the first of two state competitions to select the best representatives from Baja California for the national competition.

To promote this Olympic sport, it was decided that each qualifier would take place at beaches along the coastal zone, with the first being in Rosarito.

It’s worth noting that the competition was judged by officials certified by the International Surfing Association (ISA).

These qualifiers generate economic benefits for the beaches where the events are held, as each competitor is usually accompanied by up to four people, and around 80 athletes participate in each competition, according to Antonio Otañez, president of the Baja California Surfing Association.

“Our sport definitely contributes a significant amount,” Otañez said. “We obviously work in conjunction with the Municipal Sports Institute and the Municipal Government, and we are happy to hold our event on this beach.”