Bangladesh surfers prepare for Asian Games debut in Japan

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 2:24 AM

Last updated Jul 5, 2026

Bangladesh surfers prepare for Asian Games debut in Japan
Summary

Surfers from Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, are set to compete in the upcoming Asian Games in Japan from September 19 to October 4. Mohammad Mannan and Fatima Akhter are among the athletes representing their country in surfing, which is debuting at this year's event. The club they belong to faces challenges like lack of equipment and financial sponsorship, relying instead on donations. Both surfers have personal stories that highlight the social hurdles they overcome, including gender expectations and poverty. As they approach the Games, Mannan hopes to demonstrate the future potential of surfing in Bangladesh.

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By the Numbers
  • Cox's Bazar surfers aim for success at Asian Games in Japan.
  • Fatima Akhter faces social stigma while pursuing surfing.
  • Lack of sponsorship and proper training remains a challenge.
  • Club was founded to promote surfing in Bangladesh since 2004.
  • Surfing's popularity is growing despite national focus on cricket.
Latest Updates
  • 2:24 AMYahoo SportsPipe dreams: Bangladesh surfers chase waves at Asian Games
What they're saying
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The headquarters of the Bangladesh Surf Girls and Boys Club is a weather-beaten white shack but, like the seemingly endless beach on which it sits, its members' ambitions stretch far.The youngest club member, 10-year-old Mehedi Hasan, survives alone on the streets.

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