Groms Quest 2025 – Building India’s Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Future
The JD&AV Groms Quest 2025 is a national initiative dedicated to developing Stand Up Paddle (SUP) athletes across India. Founded by Jehan Driver (Ocean Ambassadors Foundation) and Arun Vasu (Arun Vasu Foundation TT Group), the program is supported by the Surfing Federation of India (SFI) and various state surfing associations. Together, they are driving a grassroots movement to identify, train, and elevate India’s next generation of SUP athletes.
A National Pathway for Young Paddlers
The JD&AV Groms Quest provides a structured pathway for youth aged 10–17 to train under International Surfing Association (ISA) course presenter Jehan Driver and certified ISA Stand Up Paddle Instructors across India. Through local bootcamps, district-level training, and fun competitive events, participants learn ocean safety, advanced paddling skills, and racing techniques that prepare them for national and international competition.
Expanding Across India’s Coasts
What began along the shores of Tamil Nadu has now expanded to Maharashtra, Kerala, and the Andaman Islands, with future plans to reach new coastal and inland regions across both the east and west coasts. Events have already been successfully completed in Cuddalore, Ramanathapuram, Nagapattinam, Chengalpattu, and Madurai in Tamil Nadu, and Vasai, Mumbai in Maharashtra — each contributing to a growing network of young paddlers representing India’s ocean culture.
Empowering Coastal Youth
Groms Quest is transforming the lives of children from fishing and coastal communities, giving them access to professional training, mentorship, and opportunity. Under this initiative, district administrations have hosted events that brought together over 30 participants daily — many of whom discovered the potential to represent India in SUP racing and endurance paddling.
The Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), under the leadership of the Deputy Chief Minister, has provided sponsorship and cash incentives for medalists, while the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Indian Olympic Association have understood that SUP is a part of India’s expanding blue-sports ecosystem.
Real Stories, Real Impact
From modest coastal villages, Arthi Andi and Muthukumar have emerged as national SUP champions, representing the strength and determination of India’s coastal youth. Their journeys mirror those of surfers Kishore Kumar and Ramesh, who have gone on to become Target Asian Games (TAG) athletes supported by SAI.
“The energy and determination at every Groms Quest event show how powerful this movement has become. Youth from remote fishing hamlets are now competing with confidence and pride.”
— Nawaz Jabbar, SFI Council Member & Contest Director
Supported by India’s SUP Community
The JD&AV Groms Quest is powered by collaboration. Leading contributors include ISA Instructor Dharani, Beach Lifeguard Kanan, and coaches John Sumanth, Vembarasan, and junior athlete Muthukumar, who play key roles in mentoring and guiding new paddlers. Partner clubs include Quest Academy, Surf Turf, Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Paddle for Future, Mumbai Surf Club, and Quest Academy Kochi — each championing SUP development at the grassroots level.
Building a National Network
The initiative invites District Collectors, Tourism Departments, and corporate partners to support SUP training centres and academies in their regions. By setting up SUP schools at local beaches, lakes, and estuaries, states can create sustainable employment, promote eco-tourism, and build a vibrant paddling culture.
The TT Group, Quest Academy, and several surf schools have already shown the way by supporting youth programs, providing equipment, and sponsoring athletes. More corporates and foundations are now encouraged to adopt athletes, fund training programs, and guide India’s SUP journey to global recognition.
Join the Movement
Whether you’re an aspiring paddler, a surf coach, a corporate sponsor, or an ocean enthusiast — JD&AV Groms Quest 2025 welcomes you to be part of India’s Stand Up Paddle revolution. Together, we can create opportunities that transform coastal lives and put India on the global SUP map.
Visit quest-asia.com/gromsquest to get involved, register for upcoming events, or explore partnership opportunities.
