Surfer shows Rio waves are great - 21st July 2023

Copacabana beach is in Rio de Janeiro. It's famous for its beaches, but not for surfing. For most people, surfing isn't great there.

Thiago Costa didn't agree. He decided to go surfing for 100 days. Each time, his plan was to find a round 'barrel' wave.

Thiago Costa: "I think the barrel wave is the magic moment of surfing. Of course, you have other different tricks, but I think that that moment when you're surrounded by the wave is like - it gives me a feeling of being reborn. It's like I'm stepping out of Mother Nature's womb, starting life all over again."

Costa's friends wanted him to do this.

They asked him to put photos on social media. They wanted other people to see them. That way, people might start surfing again.

Gabriel Sodre's a surfer. He enjoys seeing Costa's pictures. He can see that Costa loves doing it.

Gabriel Sodre: "The guy gets a barrel wave every day. He is an inspiration for us. Sometimes at home, I get discouraged from surfing, feeling lazy. But when I see Thiago posting his barrels of the day that's it. It's a very cool energy. He's always on the search. You can see in his face that he does it out of love. That's what matters. Surfing brings us life. It makes us young."

For Costa, it isn't just about surfing. There are lots of water sports. Water sports can make you happy.

Thiago Costa: "If I can inspire someone to practise sports, at sea, whether it's paddle boarding, bodysurfing, bodyboarding or surfing, I think the mission will be accomplished."

Costa has a new challenge. In 2024, he wants to ride 200 barrel waves. He likes the idea of doing something difficult.

Thiago Costa: "Last year, I lost my camera. I'll see if I'll buy a new one to start 2024. I might reach 200 barrels. I think it's difficult but let's try. I think that's the challenge. Life is always an eternal challenge. Surfing is also a challenge."

Surfers everywhere will be able to watch Costa on social media.