Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 22: Two talented student-athletes of St Aloysius Pre-University College (SAPUC), Mangaluru, Adya Singh and Sanvi Hegde, are making their presence felt on India’s competitive surfing circuit through their consistent performances, disciplined training, and determination. Their achievements at national-level competitions have brought recognition to the institution while reflecting the growing participation of young women in the sport.

Adya Singh: From first wave to national victory

Adya Singh’s surfing journey began in 2023 when, at the age of 13, she first stepped onto a surfboard at Mantra Surf Club in Mulki. What began as a casual interest soon developed into a deep passion for the sport. For Adya, surfing became a source of calm and self-discovery, while the challenge of mastering the waves inspired her to take up competitive surfing.

Within a year of taking up the sport, Adya entered competitive surfing. Her dedication recently culminated in a notable victory at the TPI FabriXGrom Petrol 2026 in Kovalam, Tamil Nadu, where she secured first place in the under-18 girls category. The achievement earned her the opportunity to represent India at the TPI FabriX Grand Finals in Bali, Indonesia.

Adya’s progress has been strengthened by the support of her family, mentors, and coaches. She looks up to her aunt for inspiration in developing the right mindset and values and draws motivation from Indian surfer Ramesh Budhilal.

Her early training was guided by her father, Ajay Singh, along with coaches M Selvam and Shamanthkumar, who recognised her potential at an early stage. She is currently trained by Dhruva Das and Bharath G, whose coaching combines technical instruction with mental preparation. Video analysis and personalised feedback help her identify areas for improvement, refine her technique, and build confidence. Physical conditioning and mental composure are also important components of her competition preparation.

Adya acknowledges the contribution of her parents, Ajay Singh and Vibha, as well as her friends, whose emotional, financial, and logistical support has played an important role in sustaining her sporting journey. She also appreciates the encouragement extended by the principal, teachers, and class guide at St Aloysius PU College. The college’s flexibility has enabled her to balance academics with the demands of intensive training and competition.

Sanvi Hegde: Growing with every wave

For Sanvi Hegde, the connection with surfing began much earlier. She first stepped onto a surfboard at the age of seven during a family outing to the shore. Her interest in competitive surfing grew after watching the World Surf League on television with her father. The limited representation of women in the sport further motivated her to pursue surfing seriously.

Sanvi entered professional-level competition at the age of 13 during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Surfing Federation of India launched its national series. The initiative provided her with opportunities to compete at different locations across the country, experience varied surfing conditions, and gain valuable exposure to national-level competition.

Her recent performances have been marked by consistency. Sanvi secured second place in the junior under-18 girls category at both the Kovalam Classic 2026 and the Point Break Challenge Mahabalipuram 2026, organised by the Surfing Federation of India and the SUP Series.

Her development as an athlete has been supported by her parents, Gaurav Hegde and Punya G Hegde, who have stood by her through demanding phases of training, helped her overcome moments of self-doubt, and supported the financial and logistical requirements associated with competition travel.

Sanvi draws inspiration from professional surfer John Florence, whose dedication and commitment motivate her during demanding training sessions. Her preparation includes physical fitness, dietary discipline, and intensive water practice, particularly in the run-up to competitions.

Her coach, Bharath, provides technical guidance and structured training, while Shamanthkumar, Dhruva Das, and Bharath G have also contributed to her development and preparation.

Balancing sport and education

For both Adya and Sanvi, competitive surfing goes hand in hand with their academic pursuits. Managing demanding training schedules, competition travel, and studies requires discipline, time management, and commitment.

Both athletes credit St Aloysius Pre-University College for providing an environment that encourages students to pursue their sporting ambitions while remaining committed to academics. The support and flexibility extended by the college have helped them manage competition schedules and continue their studies effectively.

Sanvi, in particular, hopes to pursue higher education up to the master’s level while continuing to develop her professional surfing career. Her ambitions reflect her determination to maintain a balance between sporting achievement and academic growth.

Inspiring the next generation

The journeys of Adya Singh and Sanvi Hegde highlight the dedication required to pursue competitive surfing alongside formal education. Surfing demands physical strength, technical ability, mental resilience, and consistent practice. Their experiences also underline the importance of family support, professional coaching, and an educational environment that recognises and encourages students’ sporting commitments.

Adya’s victory at the TPI FabriXGrom Petrol 2026 and her forthcoming opportunity to compete in Bali, together with Sanvi’s two national-level second-place finishes, represent significant milestones in their developing careers.

Their achievements also contribute to the growing visibility of surfing among young athletes in India, particularly among girls. From their early experiences on the shores of coastal Karnataka to competing on the national circuit, Adya and Sanvi have demonstrated how sustained effort, discipline, and determination can transform an interest into a serious sporting pursuit.

For St Aloysius Pre-University College, their achievements reflect the institution’s commitment to providing students with opportunities to pursue diverse talents alongside academic excellence. As both young surfers look ahead to new competitions and challenges, their journeys continue to inspire and demonstrate that the pursuit of education and sporting excellence can progress together.