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There were twelve of them: three girls and nine boys. All were members of the Guadeloupe team and were set to compete in the bodyboarding and drop-knee events at the French Championships, which were scheduled to take place from October 17 to 25 in Hossegor, Seignosse, and Capbreton. But on October 23, the day before the competitions were set to begin, the French Surfing Federation suddenly announced the cancellation of all events. The announcement came via a preliminary WhatsApp message that was not particularly well-received by the athletes or their federation. While the reason given for the cancellation was the inclement weather, many competitors noted that the conditions were relatively similar to those experienced during the longboard and shortboard competitions. Furthermore, alternative “spots” could have been used.
Outrage from the Guadeloupe Surfing League
“Our committee had received no prior information regarding this announcement,” commented the Guadeloupe Surfing League. “For these athletes, the consequences are immediate: a national event canceled, expenses already incurred, and no opportunity to compete in these events. Airfare has been paid. Accommodations have been booked. Work arrangements have been made. Athletic training has been completed. The cancellation of the events does not erase any of these commitments. Traveling from Guadeloupe to represent one’s territory requires resources, time, and sacrifices. To learn of the end of their championship in this way—through a mass email—demonstrates a lack of consideration that we strongly condemn. The Guadeloupe Surfing Committee expresses its outrage at this course of action and its full support for the twelve Guadeloupeans affected, as well as for all the athletes deprived of their competitions. Their disappointment is immense. Their efforts are genuine. So are the financial consequences. Respect for athletes cannot be dismissed with a simple message.” Among the athletes, the disappointment is just as great.
The young champion from Saint-Barth, Athanaé Blanchard, is particularly bitter. After a great season, the member of the Reefer Surf Club de l’Ajoe simply reposted his fellow athletes’ angry comments on Instagram. He also shared a post from the “rirawprod” website, which highlights that bodyboarding has earned France 36 international titles—including 12 world titles and 24 European titles—in both junior and senior categories.
