Kayaking at Mamallapuram. Sounds exciting? And snorkelling too. There’s a new addition to the water sport culture of the seaside village. Arun Vasu of TT Group, and Moorthy Megavan, both co-founders of Covelong Point Surf School, use their expertise and experience in nurturing surfing talent to create yet another surf school, Covelong Point. To be headed by S Dharani, a name to reckon with in the world of surfing in India, the new surf school at Mamallapuram will offer lessons in kayaking and stand up paddle (SUP).

Seaside dreams SUP and kayaking will aid in physical fitness, says Dharani (in shorts)  

Dharani, an ISA-certified surf instructor and a seven-time surf champion, is excited about managing the school on his own. “I hope to use all the knowledge that I’ve gained over the past six years at Covelong to train students,” says the 27-year-old. “The exciting thing about kayaking and SUP is that even non-swimmers can try their hand at them,” he adds. “The first time people get a feel of the water, they will want to keep coming back.” Dharani says that the sport will contribute to physical fitness, apart from being a medicative experience amid the waves.

Moorthy says that local fisherman Jaunty, also a popular surfer, will be assisting Dharani. “There is also equipment to be rented,” he adds.

Mamallapuram is one of the best surf spots in South India. Arun, a water sports enthusiast who has groomed several surfers, says, “The reason we opened this surf and SUP school is to promote the sports, offer more local employment and locate talent to train them for the Olympics.”

With aqua blue interiors against a white backdrop, the new sports unit at Mamallapuram looks promising. Dharani says he will be bringing along snorkelling gear for classes. If it’s your lucky day and the waters are clear and waves cooperate, he will show you some gorgeous sights of life underwater.

The school is located at Old no 112/New no 173, Fisherman’s Colony, Karunguzhi Amman Koil Street, Mamallapuram. For details, call 8939146807.