“When you look at surf and windsurfing competition, it does come to Fiji because it has the best wave in the world,” he said.
Wind surfer Niko Muller. Photo: Supplied
Nadi businessman Ian Muller is urging the Coalition Government to not only concentrate funding surfing but also other disciplines in watersports.
Fiji Surf Co-director Muller says it is fair for others that fall in the circle of sports tourism to be included in the National Budget 2024 – 2025 announcement expected next Friday, June 28.
“I think a budget for all watersports needs to be considered and not just surfing,” Muller said.
“Windsurfing got no budget allocation while surfing got $1 million. It seems biased and double standard.”
He said it would be great for minor sports that have great potential for sports tourism to be considered also.
“When you look at surf and windsurfing competition, it does come to Fiji because it has the best wave in the world,” he said.
Ian Muller.
According to Muller, there is a special magic in sailing, in using the subtlest of means to harness the virtually imperceptible forces of wind and water – does not pollute the environment in any form and scale.
He said to not break or bend nature to one’s will, but to flow with it, and go with it on a journey that spans a vast ocean of possibilities.
“Far from the crudeness of oil and engine, of oar and sweaty brow, the sail delivers us into the hands of the elements, attunes us to the environment, and helps us appreciate the natural world as a guide and a friend.”
He added that it was taking a holistic approach to each child’s journey to self-sufficiency in the ocean.
“We are dedicated to passing on the skills but also the traditions of our watersports communities, and the sea-borne cultures that have spawned them,” Muller added.
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