Bodyboarding Pushes for a Spot in Iquique 2027

Iquique 2027 South American Beach Games - Municipality of Iquique

The countdown has officially begun for the 2027 South American Beach Games, set to take place in Iquique, and efforts to include bodyboarding and stand up paddle in the official sports program are becoming increasingly visible.

The event currently features 14 disciplines, but local organizers are actively working to incorporate bodyboarding and stand up paddle—two sports deeply connected to Iquique’s coastal identity.

This is no small challenge. As an event organized under the South American Sports Organization (ODESUR), recognized by the Olympic Committee, the disciplines included must meet specific requirements. In the case of bodyboarding, its absence is mainly due to the fact that it is not yet part of the Olympic program.

However, as the host city, Iquique has the ability to propose changes. According to local authorities, being the organizing city allows them to request modifications to the sports program, opening a real opportunity for bodyboarding to be considered.

In this process, the joint work of Washington Santos and Iquique-based bodyboarder Viviana Araya has been key. The current national champion was directly invited by the municipality to support the efforts aimed at including her discipline in the event.

“For me, this is very important because bodyboarding is part of our culture and our identity as a city,” says Vivi, who has taken on the task of reaching out to international federations to gather the necessary support.

One of the main requirements is securing letters of support from at least seven countries. These federations must not only back the inclusion of bodyboarding, but also commit to bringing athletes if it is approved.

So far, support has already been secured from countries such as Peru, Brazil, Argentina, and the United States, while efforts continue to reach the required number.

“Of course I agreed to help, because it’s my discipline, and if it’s within my reach to contribute, I will,” she adds, reflecting the commitment within the sport to make this happen.

If confirmed, the inclusion of bodyboarding and stand up paddle would not only expand the event’s program, but also represent an important step forward in the recognition of these disciplines on the international stage—especially in a place where the ocean plays such a central role.

With 15 countries expected to participate and thousands of visitors projected, the 2027 South American Beach Games will not only be a major sporting event, but also an opportunity to position Iquique as a key destination for ocean sports.

Photo: Municipality of Iquique

And in that context, bodyboarding might be closer than ever to becoming part of the story.