Surf Opening in Neusiedl: New era after 15 years begins

Surf Opening in Neusiedl: New era after 15 years begins

In the region around Neusiedl am See, there was a significant change that affects the annual surf opening. This popular event, which has opened the summer season for three decades, no longer takes place in Neusiedl. The event was originally launched in Mörbisch in 1993 and moved to Podersdorf in 1994, where it became a magnet for over 100,000 visitors. The Surf Opening has settled in Neusiedl am See since 2017, but the past few years have been shaped by challenges, including Corona pandemic and changeable weather.

The popularity of the event has decreased in recent years. This became clear when there were too few surfers on the water and the main focus of the event was on beach volleyball and other activities. These developments led to the decision of the organizer Georg Kloibhofer to dissolve the agreement with the municipality. The municipal council approved this point in its last meeting, which is the basis for the change of the organizer. Kloibhofer informed the partners by email about his decision and informed that the event will now be handed over to Gerhard Polak's hands. "It was 15 eventful years," he wrote in the message.

The future of the surf openings

With the change in the event organization, the question now arises where the Surf Opening will take place in the future. Rumors state that the capital of Vienna could be a possible option, especially since Polak reported on social media and announced his return to the event organization. Among other things, he wanted to work on the 30th anniversary of the Surf Opening.

In Neusiedl am See, however, those responsible try to organize a new event that should adhere to the usual date around May 1st. Patrik Hierner, Managing Director of Burgenland Tourismus Nord, announced that an event concept is already being worked on. He confirmed that Burgenland Tourism, as the main sponsor, has an interest in establishing an event in Neusiedl that attracts visitors. Even if details have not yet been published, Hierner showed that surfing could possibly be part of the new concept. At the same time, he made it clear that you will not work with Gerhard Polak.

The creation of a new event in Neusiedl am See could bring new impulses for the region. Those responsible are careful that the traditionally strong summer event lives on in some form and continues to attract visitors. In the next few months it will be shown in which direction the plans will go and what new opportunities will arise for the region. Interested readers consult the report on www.bvz.at