The event will feature competitions in five categories ranging from 250 metres to 6 km, attracting participants from a wide range of age groups and skill levels. The championship will be organised by Mangalore Surf Club.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The event\u2019s unique charm lies in the race around the sunken Den Den vessel, which has become an iconic landmark since it sank in 2007. The competition, which continues to draw both seasoned athletes and newcomers, offers a rare opportunity for swimmers to experience open-water racing in the beautiful and challenging conditions of Mangalore's coast.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
This year\u2019s championship has drawn an impressive field of 214 swimmers, double the number of last year\u2019s participants, hailing from states such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Goa.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The competitors will race in age-specific categories, with swimmers aged 10-11 participating in the 500 metres race, and those aged 12-14 competing in the 1.5 km event. Swimmers in the 15-17 age group can take part in either the 1.5 km or 3 km races, while adult participants (18+) can choose from the 1.5 km, 3 km, or the newly-introduced 6 km category. Swimmers are limited to one category per event.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Speaking ahead of the event, Chirag Shambu, President of the Mangalore Surf Club, said, \u201cWe are delighted by the overwhelming interest in this year\u2019s championship. With over 200 participants, we have doubled last year\u2019s numbers, which reflects the growing enthusiasm for open-water sports in India.\"<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Rishabh Shetty, Contest Director for Den Den 2.0, added, \u201cThe surge in participation is a testament to the event\u2019s success and the passion of the swimming community. Safety is our top priority, and with more than 20 lifeguards stationed along with additional support from speedboats and surf-boats, we are fully prepared to ensure a secure race environment for all participants.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The event has garnered significant support from the Indian Coast Guard as Safety Partners. The championship also benefits from the support of the Open Water Swimmers Foundation and local fishing boats, which will serve as safety assets during the event.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Rishabh Shetty, Contest Director for Den Den 2.0, added, \u201cThe surge in participation is a testament to the event\u2019s success and the passion of the swimming community. Safety is our top priority, and with more than 20 lifeguards stationed along with additional support from speedboats and surf-boats, we are fully prepared to ensure a secure race environment for all participants.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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