Wiggolly Dantas
Big things are expected from Wiggolly
Dantas, the latest in the long line of hot surfers coming off the
Brazilian conveyor belt. While his small wave act is typically
electric, it was in the 2006 Monstor Energy Pro, held in big, epic and
dangerous Pipeline, that Wiggolly showed he has the potential, talent
and determination to be a star of the sport. These characteristics
shone through at he Red Bull Rising selection camp. "It was a great
surprise to be selected," said Wiggolly. "Among so many excellent
surfers from different culture and countries, we all have the same
desires to build friendship through surfing", says Wiggolly. "The most
exciting part of the camp was Mick Fanning words to the surfers", says
Wiggolly, knowing words of advice from world champs is rare wisdom
indeed. The goofyfooter's surfing addiction started when he was just
three. His older brother and sister taught him to stand on a board. In
2005, he was crowned Quiksilver King of the Groms in France. Now,
living in Itamambuca Beach south of Sao Paulo, he says that winning
that event was a fantastic feeling: "I was crying with happiness when I
won the title!". In 2007 Dantas took out the American Billabong Pro
Junior in Peru, and the quiet Brazilian, with the engaging smile, seems
unstoppable for 2008. Dantas says that the surfers he admires most are
Mick Fanning, Andy Irons and Kelly Slater. "My aim is to be on the WCT,
it's my dream," he says. "When there are no waves, I do boxing training
and practice jiu jitsu." Dantas also loves watching surfing movies
for motivation. "I get ideas and inspiration from them," he says. When
it comes to naming his favourite surf breaks, Dantas obviously loves
the biggies. "I love Pipeline because it's a nice left and Teahupoo, as
I like the dangerous wave." Once again, his favourite wave choices
indicate his desire to mix it in the most heaviest of surfing's
cauldrons.
Wiggolly Dantas : Recent Entries
Sitting 19th on the 'QS right now. There's still plenty of time, but could really use a couple more solid results. A lot of work, but definitely an improvement.