Baybay Nui from Taiwan, right, hoists her trophy after winning the women’s open event at the Busan Mayor’s International Surfing Competition 2012, Sunday. / Courtesy of Korea Surfing Association

By John Redmond

With windy conditions and small waves, the Busan Mayor’s International Surfing Competition 2012 came to a close at Haeundae Beach, Sunday.

With competitors reaching a new level of cooperation, the event was an enjoyable experience for entrants and spectators alike, with a very high standard of surfing set by locals and foreigners. Most notable was female competitor Baybay Niu from Taiwan, who won the women’s open event.

Niu, who has been surfing for 11 years, said she was pleased to get the chance to surf in Korea.

“I began surfing at home at Taitung in Taiwan. I have surfed for 11 years and have surfed in Indonesia and Japan. This is my first time in Korea,” she said in an interview at Haeundae Beach.

There has been a noticeable return among younger people surfing with traditional older style long boards to which Nui agreed.

“I’ve only ridden long boards. There’s more room do interesting maneuvers, unlike short boards where everything is about speed,” she said.

It was clear to this writer that the Taiwanese surfer had good experience as she showed flawless judgment in her wave selection, both what to ride and what to avoid.

The waves in Korea tend to be seen as small in comparison to other countries.

“I learned to surf in rather big waves. Riding small waves is very difficult. I really enjoy the Korean spirit,” she added.

Other female competitors also had a chance to show off their abilities, giving the crowd a sample of some great moves.

“The women surfers seem to have a sense of competition,” said one spectator.

“The guys are good, but the women are determined to outdo the men. The competition is very strong.”