Mangaluru: The India Paddle Festival, an international Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) event, is set to return for its second edition being held at the Sasihithlu Beach in Mangaluru for three days from March 7.

The festival, organised by Surfing Swami Foundation and presented by Karnataka Tourism, is expected to see the participation of top international SUP athletes, regional competitors and water sports enthusiasts.

The event will showcase top-level competitions, community races, and workshops, catering to both professional athletes and amateur enthusiasts.

Surfing Swami Foundation Director Dhananjay Shetty stated that last year’s event was a turning point for their paddlers, providing them with invaluable exposure to international competition. "Bringing back the India Paddle Festival is a testament to the growing SUP and surfing culture in India,” he added.

Tristan Boxford, CEO of the APP World Tour mentioned that India has immense potential for stand-up paddling, with its massive coastline and growing community of passionate athletes. “We look forward to seeing top-tier talent from around the world compete in Mangaluru, further inspiring the next generation of paddlers in India,” Boxford said.

For registration and event details, visit https://indiapaddlefestival.com/

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Belagavi (Karnataka) (PTI): Two people were killed, and another was severely injured after a goods vehicle transporting poultry birds allegedly rammed into a stationary truck on a national highway in Belagavi in the early hours of Tuesday, police said.

The deceased have been identified as Wasim (28) and Mubarak (22), both natives of Shivamogga district, they said.

The driver of the vehicle, Basavaraj Eerappa Hanchinamani (37), suffered critical injuries and has been admitted to a hospital, police said.

According to police, the accident occurred when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, allegedly due to drowsiness, and crashed into a truck parked along the highway.

The goods vehicle was en route from Kolhapur to Sorab in Shivamogga district, carrying poultry. Several chickens were also killed in the impact, a senior police officer said.

Police personnel from the Hirebagewadi Police Station visited the spot and conducted an inspection.

Injured people and the bodies of the deceased were shifted to a hospital, police added.