Kerandoo 2025: Surfing History in the Maldives

From September 9–12, 2025, the waters of L. Maabaidhoo became a bit active than before when it played host to the Kerandoo 2025, the second event of the Dhivehi Surf League (DSL). Known locally as “The Machine”, the island’s right-hand barrel wave proved to be a stage for both seasoned veterans and rising young talent, as surfers from across the Maldives competed for glory.

A New Chapter for Maabaidhoo

For the first time, L. Maabaidhoo welcomed a DSL event, replacing the Kalhegalekodaa event previously held in Gadhdhoo. The local community embraced the occasion wholeheartedly, providing spectator platforms, daily meals for athletes, and on-the-ground support, making this event as much a celebration of Maldivian surf culture as a competition.

Competition Categories and Participants

Kerandoo 2025 featured three competitive categories:

• Men’s Open Shortboard

• Junior U18 Boys Shortboard

• Men’s Open Bodyboarding (new for 2025)

A total of 60 athletes competed: 40 surfers in the shortboard categories with 20 surfers in the Men's Open Shortboard division and another 20 in the Junior U18 Boys shortboard, and 20 in bodyboarding, all eager to leave their mark on DSL history.

Highlights of the Event

Junior U18 Boys Shortboard

Champion: Yasin Ahmed Nashid

Runner-up: Mohamed Inan Abdul Hannan

14-year-old Yasin Ahmed Nashid stole the spotlight with an incredible performance, scoring a perfect 10-point wave in the final—the first time this feat has been achieved in the junior division of DSL.

Men’s Open Shortboard

Champion: Ahmed Agil (Ammadey)

Runner-up: Yasin Ahmed Nashid

In a stunning clash of generations, veteran surfer Ahmed Agil narrowly defeated Yasin Ahmed Nashid with a final score of 15.34 to 14.34 points. Nashid’s runner-up finish makes him the youngest surfer in DSL history to reach a Men’s Open final, signaling a promising future for Maldivian surfing.

Men’s Open Bodyboarding

Champion: Ali Javeed (Jatte)

Runner-up: Mohamed Kaif

This event marked a historic moment for the league as bodyboarding made its DSL debut. Ali Javeed became the first-ever champion in this category, setting a precedent for future competitions.

Looking Ahead

Kerandoo 2025 became an iconic retrospective for any inspiring surfer in the Maldives, as it was more than just a showcase skill and competition but also a celebration of Maldives’ thriving surf culture. With the final event of the 2025 season, the Rannamaari Challenge in Male' City, still to come, the DSL promises even more action and unforgettable moments.

Photo Credits: @msasurfing & @sidibarimv (Instagram)