The Olympic Games have long been a celebration of athletic excellence, but in recent years, the inclusion of extreme sports like surfing has brought a whole new level of excitement to the event. The inclusion of surfing in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics marked a milestone for the sport, and fans from around the world have eagerly awaited the next chance to see their favorite surfers battle for the gold medal.
Whether you’re an avid surfing fan or a newcomer to the sport, understanding how to watch the surfing events at the Olympics is key to enjoying this thrilling spectacle. With the next Olympic Games on the horizon, it’s essential to know where, when, and how to catch all the action.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to enjoy the surfing competition at the Olympics, including broadcast options, event schedules, how to follow the athletes, and tips for getting the most out of your viewing experience.
What is Surfing in the Olympics?
Surfing was officially added to the Olympic Games in Tokyo 2020, a historic moment for the sport. It was a long-awaited move by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), recognizing surfing as a competitive sport with global appeal. The event was held at Tsurigasaki Beach in Chiba, Japan, and saw athletes compete in the ultimate test of both skill and endurance, battling the ocean’s waves to score points based on their performance.
The inclusion of surfing added an exciting dynamic to the Olympics, introducing a sport that blends athleticism with nature’s unpredictable challenges. Athletes are judged based on the difficulty, style, and innovation of their maneuvers, making it a thrilling and dynamic event for viewers.
As the surfing Olympics continue to evolve, it’s important to know where and how you can watch these exciting competitions.
Surfing Olympics Schedule: When to Watch?
The schedule for surfing events at the Olympics varies depending on the host country and the availability of suitable surf conditions. In Tokyo 2020, the surfing competition took place over several days, with each round of the event being influenced by the waves and weather conditions on the beach.
Key Components of the Surfing Olympics Schedule:
Qualifying Rounds: These are the early heats where surfers compete to advance to the next round.
Quarterfinals: The best of the surfers compete for a spot in the semifinals.
Semifinals: The remaining surfers battle for a chance to make it to the finals.
Finals: The top competitors face off for the coveted Olympic gold medal.
The surfing competition doesn’t always follow a rigid schedule, as wave conditions are a major factor. Organizers typically announce the exact times for each round a day or two before the event based on weather and surf conditions.
If you are looking to follow the surfing events in future Olympics, it’s important to check the schedule closer to the event for up-to-date timings and announcements. You can typically find official schedules on the Olympics website, on various sports networks, or through social media channels for the event.
How to Watch Surfing in the Olympics: Television and Streaming Options
Now that you know when the surfing events will take place, the next step is knowing where to watch them. Thankfully, there are several options available, whether you prefer to watch on television, stream online, or follow the event on social media.
1. Television Broadcasts
The Olympics are widely broadcast across different networks around the world, and surfing events are no exception. Here’s how to catch the action on TV:
NBC (USA): For American viewers, NBC is the official broadcaster for the Summer Olympics, including surfing. You can tune in to NBC, NBCSN, and the Olympic Channel for live coverage and highlights of the surfing events.
Eurosport (Europe): In Europe, Eurosport typically provides comprehensive coverage of the Olympics, including the surfing competitions. Eurosport offers both live broadcasts and replays.
NHK (Japan): NHK is the official broadcaster in Japan and covers all Olympic events, including surfing, for local audiences.
7 Network (Australia): Australian surfers and fans will be able to watch the surfing Olympics on the 7 Network, which provides extensive coverage of all Olympic events.
If you’re in a region with limited or no access to television broadcasts, don’t worry! Streaming services offer great alternatives.
2. Streaming Services
Many fans prefer the convenience of streaming online. The good news is that most of the major sports networks also provide streaming options for Olympic events.
NBC Sports Live (USA): If you’re in the United States, you can stream the Olympics through NBC Sports Live, which offers live coverage of surfing and other Olympic events.
Eurosport Player (Europe): Eurosport’s streaming service, Eurosport Player, is the go-to option for European audiences who want to stream the surfing events live on various devices.
Olympics: The official Olympics website also offers live streaming of many Olympic sports, including surfing. It’s a great way to stay up-to-date with all the action.
YouTube: Many official Olympic accounts and networks, such as Olympics, NBC, and others, stream highlights and even full events on YouTube, making it a useful resource for fans who want to watch replays or catch up with missed events.
3. Social Media
Social media platforms are also valuable tools for watching Olympic surfing competitions. Follow the official Olympic pages, as well as surfing federations like World Surf League (WSL), for real-time updates, clips, and highlights. These platforms are often the first to showcase key moments, giving fans a quick way to stay in the loop.
4. Mobile Apps
For on-the-go fans, mobile apps provide a fantastic way to watch and follow the surfing Olympics. Many of the networks mentioned earlier offer official apps that allow you to stream events from your smartphone or tablet. These apps often have features like live updates, results, and athlete profiles.
How to Follow the Athletes and Stay Updated
Watching the event is just part of the fun. To truly immerse yourself in the Olympic surfing experience, it’s essential to follow the athletes and stay updated on their performances, rankings, and personal stories.
1. Athlete Social Media Profiles
Many Olympic surfers are active on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, offering fans behind-the-scenes access to their training, travels, and competitions. For instance, following surfers like John John Florence, Carissa Moore, or Gabriel Medina will give you an inside look into their preparations for the Olympics and their performances on the world stage.
2. Surfing Websites and Forums
The World Surf League (WSL) website is an excellent resource for tracking athletes, checking event schedules, and following rankings. You can also find news articles, interviews, and in-depth features about Olympic surfers.
Surfing forums and fan groups on platforms like Reddit and Facebook are also popular places to discuss surfing techniques, athletes, and event results with other fans.
How to Enjoy the Surfing Olympics Like a Pro
To make the most of your surfing Olympics experience, here are a few pro tips:
Understand the Scoring System: Surfing is judged based on wave selection, ride length, maneuver difficulty, and overall style. Knowing how the athletes are scored will enhance your appreciation of the performances.
Watch Live if Possible: While streaming and television broadcasts are great, nothing beats the excitement of watching the surfing events live. If you have the chance to attend the Olympics in person, be sure to get tickets early!
Learn About the Surfing Culture: Surfing isn’t just a sport—it’s a culture. The Olympic surfing community is full of passionate, dedicated athletes who bring their unique personalities and styles to the water. Dive into surfing documentaries, books, and movies to deepen your understanding of the sport.
Conclusion
The surfing Olympics is a thrilling, dynamic event that combines athletic prowess with the beauty and unpredictability of the ocean. By understanding the schedule, where to watch, and how to follow your favorite athletes, you can enjoy the full experience of Olympic surfing from the comfort of your home or on the beachside. Whether you’re a lifelong surfing enthusiast or new to the sport, there’s no better time to get involved and cheer on these talented athletes as they compete for the gold.