Last Updated on August 15, 2024
Sandboarding is an exciting and rapidly growing sport, but it is unlikely to appear at the next Summer Olympics in 2028, which will be held in Los Angeles.
The LA 2028 Games are set to feature a fresh lineup of sports, including surfing, skateboarding, and sport climbing, which were added to attract a younger audience and bring more energy to the Olympic program.
Unfortunately, sandboarding faces several challenges that may prevent it from joining this prestigious event.
Not an Official Olympic Sport
Currently, sandboarding is not recognized as an official Olympic sport by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
For a sport to be included in the Olympics, it must be widely practiced in at least 75 countries and across four continents.
While sandboarding has gained popularity in regions like Peru, Australia, and the United States, it likely does not meet this participation threshold yet.
The IOC’s focus on inclusivity and global reach means that without broader international acceptance, sandboarding may struggle to secure a spot in future Olympic Games.
Logistical Challenges
Hosting sandboarding events at the Olympics presents significant logistical challenges.
Finding suitable natural sand dunes or constructing artificial dunes large enough for competition would be both difficult and costly within an Olympic host city.
The shifting nature of sand dunes can also complicate the creation of consistent competition conditions, making it hard to ensure fair play.
Unlike more established sports, which have dedicated venues and infrastructure, sandboarding lacks the necessary facilities to support Olympic-level competitions.
Lack of International Governing Body
Another hurdle for sandboarding’s Olympic aspirations is the absence of a single, unified international governing body to oversee competitive sandboarding worldwide.
Having a recognized international federation is crucial for Olympic inclusion. While organizations like Dune Riders International promote competitive sandboarding in the U.S., a global governing body that can standardize rules and regulations is still in development.
Without this structure, it will be challenging to demonstrate to the IOC that sandboarding is ready for the Olympic stage.
Potential for Future Inclusion
Despite these challenges, sandboarding’s popularity continues to grow, and it is not impossible that it could be considered for future Olympic Games beyond 2028. I
f the sport can establish a strong international federation, increase participation numbers, and demonstrate its ability to host events at the
Olympic level, it may have a chance of appearing as a demonstration or full medal sport in subsequent Olympic cycles.
The IOC has shown a willingness to embrace new sports that resonate with younger audiences, as seen with the inclusion of surfing, skateboarding, and breakdancing in the former Paris 2024 Games.
Sandboarding in Los Angeles
Interestingly, sandboarding can actually be practiced in the Los Angeles area. Locations like the Point Mugu Sand Dunes and various beaches, such as Venice Beach and Hermosa Beach, offer opportunities for sand sledding and boarding.
These spots provide a fun and accessible way for locals and visitors to experience the thrill of gliding down sandy slopes, even if they aren’t Olympic venues.
Current Events and Competitions
For now, sandboarding enthusiasts can look forward to the International Sandboarding Competition, which brings together top athletes from around the world to showcase their skills on the dunes.
This event highlights the sport’s growing community and serves as a platform for riders to demonstrate their talent and passion.
As the sport continues to develop, it may attract more attention and support, paving the way for future opportunities.
Conclusion
While Olympic inclusion in 2028 remains unlikely given the sport’s current status, the future looks bright for sandboarding. As its global presence continues to expand and the community becomes more organized, the dream of seeing sandboarding on the Olympic stage may become a reality in the years to come. For now, fans of this thrilling and fast-paced boardsport can enjoy the excitement of competitions and the camaraderie of the sandboarding community, all while keeping an eye on potential Olympic aspirations in the future.
Your n°1 source of information on the world of sandsports and desert adventure travel. Our articles are the result of extensive research, personal experience, and knowledge-sharing within the global sandboarding community.
