Manuel Selman asks that the surfing in Santiago 2023 not be in Reñaca

And it raises a national controversy over the venue for the sport at the second largest multi-sport event in the world.

May 3, 2022

One of the best surfers in the history of Chile, Manuel Selman, strongly questioned that the surfing event of the Pan American Games in Santiago 2023 will be held in Reñaca; “it is one of the worst waves in the world,” he told As.

Although it has not been officially defined as the venue for the second appearance of surfing, it has been considered as a possible site for the grand event.

“Chile has the best waves in the world: El Gringo in Arica and the southern tips, like Pichilemu. Reñaca is one of the worst waves in the world. It’s like playing football on a soccer field. They are investing a lot of money in new venues for other sports and our stadium, surfing, doesn’t cost a penny. They have to change it,” Manuel told As.

Selman's comments have had a big impact in Chile. The country's website, Chilesurf.cl, launched a series of posts with perfect waves in Reñaca, asking if it is the worst wave in the country.

Selman justified himself: “In Reñaca it would be a random event. The talent, level and competitive knowledge are up in the air and that is not a good show. We would be leaving the doors open for any competitor to win the gold medal.”

For him, the tournament should take place in Punta de Lobos. “I think that there are many competitors who are not allowed to compete there, it would be a good idea for us as a host and surfing would stand out as a spectacle,” he said.