Late-summer surfing showdown

The surfing competition ‘Takarabiscuit × NK Techno Kugenuma Pro-Am Open 2026’ was held at Kugenuma Beach during the bathing beach opening period, marking a Japanese first for a pro-am event held while the beach was officially open. The two-day contest on 12 August and 13 August featured Japanese professional surfers and amateurs competing in multiple divisions. Organizers emphasized the event’s novelty and worked with local authorities to run the contest alongside regular beach activities. The tournament aimed to raise the profile of surfing in the area and showcase both elite and rising talent.