The fifth edition of the competition was held in the Pacific country between November 12 and 20.

It was the first major ISA event to take place in the country with 244 competitors from 26 countries taking part.

The world’s best SUP athletes took part with Candice Appleby of the United States, Hawaii's Kai Lenny and Zane Schweitzer and Casper Steinfath of Denmark all emerging victorious with gold medals from their respective disciplines.

During the Championships, the ISA teamed up with non-profit organisation, Sustainable Surf, and global SUP company, Starboard, in a bid to reduce the environmental impact of the event.

The contest was declared as a Deep Blue Event, meaning it sets a "clear path" for reducing the environmental impact while also providing social benefits for the local community.

Throughout the competition, the ISA executed a cohesive waste management strategy at the main event sites of Tavarua Island, Port Denarau, Musket Cove and Cloudbreak.

They also planted 4,000 mangroves, small trees that grow in coastal water, in Myanmar to offset the carbon footprint of the event.

"Bringing together the world’s best SUP and paddleboard athletes in a world-class water sport destination such as Fiji has pushed the limits of these sports and has set new standards for competition," said ISA President, Fernando Aguerre.

"SUP’s especially vibrant and youthful energy was showcased in exhilarating racing and surfing events throughout the whole week.

"With its impressive display of athleticism and youthfulness, SUP would make a perfect fit on the sports programme of the Olympic Games and we intend to continue campaigning for its inclusion in the 2024 Games.

"We also pride ourselves on taking the environmental impact of the event into account and acting to reduce our footprint in Fiji.

"I would like to give a big thanks to Sustainable Surf and Starboard for partnering with us to create a positive environmental legacy that we hope other surfing events will follow."