The surf isn't up for everyone in the Irish Surfing Association (ISA). Having been offered a chance to stage the World Games of 2004, the ISA are facing a revolt by members who say the event is overly commercial, inappropriate for Ireland and would mean "overcrowding and greedy visitors".

Objectors to the world's largest contest, led by Sligo Surf Club's Gary Salter, say that by taking on such a "ridiculously huge event" domestic issues will be "sidelined and neglected".

Salter and his supporters have issued a document saying that they do not want the event to go to Bundoran, Donegal, in 2004.

"Let's not let the Irish Surfing Association foist their competition orientated, surf-industry encouraged, booze-sponsored policy on us. We must insist on a policy of sustainable growth for our sport and reject this blatantly expansionist, commercially-driven proposal . . . The ISA is not the South Donegal Chamber of Commerce," the statement said.

There are around 1,000 members in the ISA, and the schism in the sport is a familiar one worldwide. It divides those "soul surfers" who view surfing as a lifestyle, from others who compete in a structured way through clubs and commercially-sponsored competitions.

The ISA say that they have always tried to represent both camps and, reverting to the democratic process, are putting the issue to a vote of all members. The championships will bring in an estimated £3 million to the region as up to 40 international teams of 20 will converge on Bundoran for the 10-day event.

The ISA says the sport needs and deserves a profile, and no better way to do it than staging the "surfing Olympics". It is believed that Minister for Sport, Dr McDaid, is looking favourably on supporting the event.

"For the ISA to achieve its objectives, it requires a profile, it requires a voice and it requires finance. The World Surfing Games 2004 will, no doubt, raise the profile of the sport in Ireland and internationally. It is a chance for the people of Ireland to see the best surfers in he world," the ISA argues.

"The business community of the North West and particularly Bundoran, will benefit substantially during the `off peak' tourist season."

But those benefits are exactly what irk the "lifestyle" surfers who value the quality of the Irish waves which remain uncluttered.