Watersports: RDS Surf School champs at Red Bull Levels 2017

The third edition of Red Bull Levels held this past weekend greeted its competitors with an overcast sky, cold rough seas and an excitement that ran through the beach. 

Seventy teams were ready to take on the toughest obstacle course that tested teams' strength, grit, stamina and team work all whilst experiencing two native trades of Sri Lanka — toddy tapping and stilt fishing. 

R.D.S. Surf School stole the show delivering a deserved podium finish as they claimed the Champions spot of the 2017 edition of Red Bull Levels. 

Their journey to the Finals was challenging as the team faced tough competition and ferocious waves but the final round proved their winning moment with an overall explosive display from the whole team clinching their winning title. 

R.D.S. Surf School with their stand out performance earned them both Champions title and Rs. 300,000 prize money. 

Team Lono Sup came in second and took home Rs. 200,000 whilst Team Rivers and Mountains was relegated to third place and claimed Rs. 100,000 in prize money. 

"Winning Red Bull Levels means everything to us," said Team Captain of R.D.S Surf School. 

The team made up of three Sri Lankan surfers from Ahangama and one female surfer from Sweden were ecstatic with their win saying, "This was more than a race. The course was tiring and hardcore and we have never faced anything like this. Each round required us to re-strategise and keep focused. The whole concept of stilt fishing and toddy tapping combined with the rough waves is beyond what someone can imagine. You have to experience it firsthand. We can't wait to come back next year to Mirissa and take on this course again." 

Red Bull Levels is an event designed to cater to anyone with various fitness levels with almost no barrier to entry, making the event accessible to anyone with a sense of adventure. 

The event this year incorporated two courses each with five stilts of varying heights to climb. 

Natalie Jayasuriya, owner of Kama Mirissa commented, "We are delighted to have been the venue partner for such an unique event which not only brings out the culture of Sri Lanka in a non-traditional format but Mirissa with its vibrant beach life and love for water sports is an ideal location for such an event."