The Portuguese Tourism Board will be welcoming visitors travelling to Peniche for the Rip Curl Pro Search with open arms. From the 19th to the 30th of October, the world's 45 top male surfers and the world's top 17 female surfers will be taking part in this highly prestigious event on the 2009 ASP World Tour calendar. National champion, Tiago Pires, the first Portuguese to compete on the World Tour, is one of the athletes present on the circuit.
 
The Rip Curl Pro Search is yet another move in Portugal's strategy to make its name as an organiser of major international events that attract visitors, contribute to improved economic activity, enliven the regions and strengthen the country's reputation.

The beaches on the Peniche Peninsula are a paradise for surfing aficionados and the organisers of the Rip Curl Pro Search couldn't have chosen a better venue for this edition of a championship that attracts followers from all over the world.

The competition events will take place at two unique venues - "Supertubos" and "Balaia" - where the natural conditions will guarantee a spectacular show.
 
This is also an excellent opportunity to show the youngsters that Portugal, where history and innovation go smoothly hand-in-hand, is not only a trend-setter but also manages to retain its national identity. Our strong connection to the sea, clearly visible in our cuisine and culture, in addition to the excellent infrastructure and the welcome we extend to visitors, allow us to meet the expectations of those who chose our country as their destination.

Environmental sustainability is one of the Portuguese Tourism Board's concerns. We would also like to reassure Portuguese surfers achieving good results in international competitions, that events from the official international calendar will be held in Portugal. Further, we will be investing in the creation of high level surfing centres at various places along the coast. These are just some of the initiatives we have been taking so that Portugal can increasingly make its mark as a world class surfing destination.

Frederico Costa
Vice President of the ITP - Portuguese Tourism Board