Surfer Lucas Chumbo is preparing to begin his career in the global surfing elite, taking part in the Vivo Rio Pro, in Saquarema. At the event, he can cross paths with his brother, João Chianca, and compete for a significant prize pool that could reach R$750,000.
Athlete comments on the pressure of competing in the WSL at home, alongside idols
Born and raised on Praia de Itaúna, in Saquarema, Lucas Chumbo, known for his dominance in giant waves, returns to the scene where he took his first strokes. Starting this Friday, June 19th, he will make his debut in heats on the world circuit, having been invited by the WSL organization to the Vivo Rio Pro stage.
The draw for the tournament brackets indicates a potential dispute between Chumbo and his brother, João Chianca, who currently occupies 23rd position in the world rankings. The surfer highlights the particularity of this possible confrontation, highlighting the talent of Chianca and the other competitors present.
“I will have the opportunity to face the 32 main surfers on the planet and, at the same time, be in the water with my brother, who I consider an idol in surfing, as well as names like Gabriel Medina, Ítalo Ferreira and Filipe Toledo”, declared the athlete. “It’s an immense challenge,” he added.
Addressing the distinctions between giant wave surfing, his specialty, and “smaller waves”, as he himself described it, Chumbo highlighted rhythm as a crucial element in executing manoeuvres. “It is necessary to apply force without sacrificing the integrity of the wave”, he detailed. “My expectation is to be prepared to perform well, and for us to have excellent waves.”
Discover the highlights of the Saquarema tournament
The event in Saquarema is scheduled to take place between the 19th and 27th of June. The surfer with the best score in the finals, whether in the male or female category, will not only receive the cash prize of US$80,000 (equivalent to approximately R$413,000), but also a GWM Tank 300 vehicle, valued at R$342,000.
Thus, the stage champion will be able to accumulate a total reward that approaches R$750,000. This amount represents the largest amount ever allocated to the winners in all Brazilian editions of the championship, highlighting the financial relevance of the tournament.