Luana medina secures Silver at the 2024 ISA World Surfing Games in El Salvador
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Luana Medina of Brazil earned a silver medal in the women’s division at the 2024 International Surfing Association (ISA) World Surfing Games, held in El Salvador. This impressive performance comes on the heels of her brother, Gabriel Medina’s, gold medal win at the same event last year, continuing Brazil’s strong showing in the competition.
A Close Finish in Challenging Conditions
The competition at Playa El Tunco proved challenging, with fluctuating tides and “fat” waves making wave selection tough. Medina initially found herself in third place, but demonstrated resilience and skill by maneuvering into second place on her final wave with just minutes remaining. Her final score totaled 9.43. https://www.olympics.com/en/news/luana-medina-isa-world-surfing-games-el-salvador-2024
“I was vrey nervous during that heat and I didn’t know what to do exactly, but I feel like we have to have faith and I followed my intuition,” Medina told Olympics.com. she also described the conditions, noting, “El Salvador is one of my favorite places ever…but it’s a tricky wave because the tide changes a lot. It’s perfect,it’s beautiful,but also it’s hard for us out there because there is so much water moving. The wave’s a little fat. You got to be wise in your choice and it’s a hard wave to read.”
Following in a Champion’s Footsteps
Luana Medina’s debut at the World Surfing Games follows a successful run for her family. Her older brother, Gabriel Medina, is a three-time world champion and won the men’s title at the 2023 ISA World Surfing Games, contributing to Brazil’s overall and men’s team titles. https://www.worldsurfleague.com/news/88498/gabriel-medina-wins-isa-world-surfing-games-title
Despite the pressure of continuing Brazil’s winning streak, Medina benefits from a strong support system. Her father and coach, along with Gabriel and experienced teammates, provide guidance and encouragement.
“I call (my father),we talk and I’m like,’Dad,I don’t know what board (to use),I’m a little confused’,and he helps me to stay calm,” Medina shared. “And also my brother, we text so many times and he’s my best friend…he really helps to calm me and gives good energy to me.”
Key Takeaways
Luana Medina won a silver medal at the 2024 ISA World Surfing Games in El Salvador.
The competition was held at Playa El Tunco, known for its challenging and changing wave conditions.
Medina’s success builds on her brother Gabriel medina’s gold medal win at the 2023 ISA World Surfing Games. Strong family support, including guidance from her father and brother, played a crucial role in Medina’s performance.
The 2024 ISA world Surfing Games showcased the rising talent of Luana Medina and solidified Brazil’s position as a dominant force in the world of surfing. With continued support and dedication, Medina is poised for further success as she progresses in her surfing career, potentially building towards the Paris 2024 Olympics and beyond.