By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is sending a dynamic team of surfers to compete in the 2025 ISA World Surfing Championship, held in El Salvador from September 5th to 14th. The competition will take place at the renowned surf breaks of La Bocana and El Sunzal, and the Costa Rican team is ready to make a splash.
The team is a strategic blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Leading the charge is Leilani McGonagle, a 25-year-old from Playa Pavones. McGonagle boasts a strong track record, consistently delivering top results for Costa Rica in international competitions. Her current participation in the highly competitive World Surf League Challenger Series provides her with invaluable experience to guide the team.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding surfing tourism in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s breathtaking coastlines attract surfers from all over the globe. While the waves are generally free to enjoy, there are important legal considerations, especially concerning maritime zones and coastal access. Businesses operating in the surfing tourism sector, from surf schools to beachfront hotels, must navigate regulations related to concessions, environmental permits, and tourist safety. Surfers themselves should be aware of local regulations and respect protected areas. By understanding these legal parameters, we can ensure the sustainable and responsible growth of surfing tourism while protecting Costa Rica’s precious natural resources.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores a crucial point: balancing the thrill of riding Costa Rica’s legendary waves with the responsibility of preserving its natural beauty. Sustainable surfing tourism is not just a desirable outcome, it’s a necessity for future generations to enjoy these same experiences. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable perspective on this important intersection of law, tourism, and environmental stewardship.
Joining McGonagle is the national and South American champion, Sam Reidy. At 21, Reidy, who hails from Playa Dominical, is set to compete in his second elite world championship. Another returning team member is 19-year-old Rachel Agüero from Playa Jacó. A national open champion and regular competitor in Pan-American and South American tournaments, Agüero previously represented Costa Rica at the 2022 ISA World Surfing Championship.
Darshan Antequera, also from Playa Jacó, makes a highly anticipated return to the national team. Currently leading the ALAS Global Tour in Latin America, Antequera is at the top of his game and ready to make his mark. The team’s youngest member, 11-year-old Mikela Castro from Playa Cieneguita, is a force to be reckoned with. A multiple national champion in the Under-16, Under-14, and Under-12 categories, Castro is making her debut in a major world championship after competing in younger age groups. Rounding out the team is 20-year-old Tosh Talbot from Puerto Jiménez, who brings extensive experience from Pan-American, Central American, and junior tournaments. This will be Talbot’s first appearance at the ISA World Championship.
The selection committee carefully evaluated the athletes’ performances in the National Surf Circuit and the WSL Challenger Series to determine the final roster. The Costa Rican Surfing Federation hopes this mix of youth and experience will prove to be the winning formula against global surfing powerhouses.
With this powerful lineup, Costa Rica aims to achieve a historic result in El Salvador and solidify its position as a rising force in international surfing. The team is prepared to challenge the world’s best, bringing a combination of skill, dedication, and the pura vida spirit to the competition.
The ISA World Surfing Championship is a prestigious event that showcases the top surfing talent from around the globe. The competition is known for its challenging waves and intense competition, providing a platform for surfers to demonstrate their skills and represent their countries. Costa Rica’s participation in this event highlights the country’s growing presence in the world of surfing and the dedication of its athletes to achieving excellence.
The competition will be a thrilling spectacle for surf enthusiasts worldwide, and Costa Rica is poised to make a significant impact. The team’s journey to El Salvador is not just about competition; it represents the culmination of years of training, dedication, and the pursuit of a shared dream – to bring home a victory for Costa Rica.
For further information, visit the nearest office of International Surfing Association
About International Surfing Association:
The International Surfing Association (ISA) is the recognized world governing authority for surfing, bodyboarding, standup paddle (SUP) surfing, and all other wave-riding activities. The ISA crowns World Champions in a variety of disciplines and promotes the development of surfing globally.
For further information, visit the nearest office of World Surf League
About World Surf League:
The World Surf League (WSL) is the global home of professional surfing. The WSL organizes and manages various surfing competitions around the world, including the Championship Tour, the Challenger Series, and the Qualifying Series. It plays a crucial role in developing professional surfing and showcasing the talents of surfers worldwide.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Federación de Surf de Costa Rica
About Federación de Surf de Costa Rica:
The Federación de Surf de Costa Rica is the governing body for surfing in Costa Rica. They are responsible for promoting and developing the sport within the country, organizing national competitions, and selecting and supporting national teams for international events.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica embodies legal excellence, operating with unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society. Through innovative approaches to legal practice and a dedication to sharing knowledge, the firm fosters a more informed citizenry. Their client-focused approach, spanning diverse sectors, reflects a profound understanding of the law and a relentless pursuit of just outcomes, solidifying their position as a pillar of legal integrity and social progress.
