We present to you an exclusive interview with one of the idols and legends of bodyboarding worldwide.
This Brazilian athlete is a role model in every sense. He’s a very down-to-earth, cheerful, and friendly person, a true friend to his friends, and especially family-oriented.
His bodyboarding career is incredible; at 40 years old, he is one of the veteran athletes on the tour, but he is undoubtedly in the best shape of his life. He was the world champion in 2008 and is currently ranked number 1 going into the final event at Gran Canaria Frontón King.
Let’s meet one of the most spectacular riders in the world: URI VALADAO.
- How was your childhood in Brazil?
I had a very happy childhood in Salvador de Bahia, surrounded by nature and the ocean. From a young age, I spent hours at the beach with my family. I also remember that my parents encouraged me a lot to participate in sports; I loved trying out all kinds of sports—soccer, skateboarding, swimming, volleyball, basketball… I grew up in a very united family, and that gave me a solid foundation for everything that came after.
- did you get into bodyboarding, and what are your first memories?
I started very young, at just 10 years old when I caught my first waves with my older brother, Khael Valadao. I fell in love with bodyboarding and wanted to practice it every day. The feeling of riding a wave was different from all the other sports I had tried before, and I loved that sensation!
- You were the world champion in 2008, specifically at El Confital in Gran Canaria. This year, you’re ranked number 1 in the IBC standings. How do you feel about possibly becoming world champion again, 17 years later, at Gran Canaria Frontón King?
It would be something incredible, honestly! To compete for another world title so many years later, in such a symbolic place as the Frontón, is a privilege… I couldn’t ask for more. I’ve worked hard this year; I’m motivated and full of energy. But I also try to enjoy the journey, and I’m really happy to be competing with the best in the world again.
- You’re definitely an idol and a legend in this sport, having gone through different generations while still competing at the top level. What differences do you notice in your surfing from when you started until now?
The difference is that I now feel much more versatile when it comes to riding any type of wave. I think I’ve managed to refine my style, which has always been pretty radical, but now I have more balance. I’ve also learned to enjoy the ride more, and I’m still as motivated as I was in 2008!
- You’ve been involved in bodyboarding since almost its inception, witnessing its evolution, generational changes, new technologies, social media, etc. How have you experienced these changes, and what do you see as advantages and disadvantages?
Honestly, a lot has changed in bodyboarding in recent years. Access to images and social media has become much easier, making materials more accessible to everyone. People can find videos that used to be harder to come by. But on the downside, being an athlete today is much tougher. To make money nowadays, to really support yourself and live off it, it’s not enough to just achieve great results; you also need a strong presence on social media. People have to be appealing. And this is a huge shift for many athletes who don’t position themselves this way. However, especially in the world circuit, I’ve had very good expectations, with the new vision of the world circuit that I believe has much greater growth potential than it did a few years ago. The mindset of the people involved is changing; I think good times are coming.
- You’ve always stood out as a very radical rider, along with being able to compete well in all conditions. How do you prepare to reach your current level and maintain it over so many decades?
The key is balance. I take care of myself physically; I do functional training, watch my diet, and also work on my mental state. But above all, I keep enjoying what I do. When you love what you do, training isn’t a sacrifice—it’s part of the journey.
- You have many titles and important moments in your career. What are the most unforgettable for you?
There are countless unforgettable moments, but without a doubt, winning the world title in 2008 was a unique moment. Another significant one was winning at Confital in 2007 with an incredible performance against Ben Player in the final!
- What are your current and future projects?
I’m still competing and giving it my all on tour. I’m also really focused on personal projects, like bodyboarding clinics, surf trips with groups (UV experience), and I continue to run my bodyboarding school in my hometown and my bodyboard shop. I love being able to work in the sport I’m passionate about!
- You have a lot of admirers of all ages. What message do you want to send to those who want to try or improve their bodyboarding skills?
The most important thing is to never lose your passion. Bodyboarding is a lifestyle, not just a sport. Enjoy every session, learn with humility, and don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Everyone has their own pace and path. And the coolest part is that there’s always something new to learn in the ocean.
- When did you decide to pursue bodyboarding professionally?
I think I felt it from a young age, but it was at 16 when I really made the decision to go for it. I started competing outside of Brazil, and that’s when I realized that I wanted to make a living from bodyboarding. And here I am, over 24 years later, grateful for everything.
- Who have been or are your idols or role models?
My biggest idol in bodyboarding has always been Guilherme Tamega. He’s inspired me a lot with his technique and style, plus his determination to win championships! In other sports, I’ve always admired Roger Federer and Guga in tennis.
- Is there any dream or goal you still want to achieve, either inside or outside of bodyboarding?
There are always dreams. I’d love to keep competing at the highest level as long as my body and soul allow it. Another world title would be super special for my journey!
- Here’s your chance to thank or mention anyone or anything you’d like:
I want to thank my family, especially my parents, who believed in me since I decided to chase my dreams as a kid! Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today! Big thanks to my sponsors, of course, and to everyone who has supported me on this long journey. Also, thanks to the fans who keep believing in me, sending messages, getting excited about my victories, and lifting me up during losses.
See you in the water!
Youtube: UVTV – Uri Valadão TV
Bodyboarding school: @escolaurivaladao
Shop: www.uvstorebrasil.com.br
@uvstorebrasil @urivaladao