The city is home to one of India's oldest surf clubs, 'Mantra Surf Club of India.
The competition, which is a part of the 'Karnataka Surfing Festival' is recognised by the International Surfing Association and Surfing Federation of India and is supported by Karnataka Tourism.
The inaugural edition is being organised by the 'Mantra Surf Club' in association with the Kanara Surfing & Water Sports Promotion Council. Over 100 surfers from India and abroad will make way to the white sand Sasihithlu beach over the weekend to fight for the top spot.
The event will see over 100 surfers from Goa, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Mumbai, Lakshwadeep along with international surfers from Australia, United States of America and France.
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The competition will see both men and women vie for the top spot under seven different categories - Under 16, Juniors (17-22 years), Seniors (23 - 28 Years), Masters (29 and above), Open Category, Stand Up Paddeling Race ( Men & Women) and Body Boarding ( Men & Women).
It will also see participation from India's first female surfer, Ishita Malviya, along with top seeded Indian women surfers Sinchana Gowda and Anisha Naik.
"It has been our constant endeavour to promote Mangaluru and Karnataka's coastal line as an international surfing destination. It's a great moment for all of us to have finally been able to host the inaugural edition of the 'All Cargo Indian Open of Surfing'. Through this event we plan to promote local talent and in future help generate employment opportunities for the youth," said Kishore Kumar, President, Surfing Federation of India while inspecting the arrangements a day prior to the start of the event.