Hey everyone! Here at IBC, we’re excited to kick off a new section all about the idols and legends of bodyboarding. We want to create a space for these amazing riders, and for the younger crowd who might not know them yet, to learn a bit about their journeys and contributions to our sport.
We’ll be doing interviews and features so you can get the scoop on what they’re up to now and some fun facts about these legends.
In our first edition, we’re introducing you to a rider who’s a pro at tackling giant waves and has been a major figure in the global bodyboarding scene. He was born 44 years ago in Niterói, Brazil, and now lives in Itacoatiara. He’s been surfing since he was 10, and his favorite move is the air reverse.
Get ready to meet a true ocean enthusiast who shares part of his story and connection to the sea in this interview.
We hope you enjoy getting to know the incredible Dudu Pedra!
- Tell us about how you got started in bodyboarding and what this sport brings to your life. What was your childhood like in Brazil, etc.?
I spent my childhood at the beach. I was never good at soccer, so my best entertainment was in the waves. When I was 10 years old, my older sister gave me a bodyboard. So I started practicing with diving fins. I soon made friends who helped me understand how to do it. My progress was very fast. At 14, I already had a sponsorship from Toobs and I understood that this was what I would do for the rest of my life. It was at the beach that I met my wife. I traveled the world from bodyboarding and I still make a living working in every area I can. As an athlete, coach, businessman and head judge of national events.
- You’re an idol and a legend in bodyboarding, and after all these years, you’re still at the top of your game. You’re definitely a huge inspiration for many of us who are passionate about this sport. You’re a versatile rider who really shines in big, powerful waves. How do you prepare physically and mentally to surf in such tough conditions, and what do you feel in those extreme moments?
I simply love what I do! I love being connected to the ocean on stormy days. It has always been a personal challenge. I want to improve my performance even more, especially in extreme conditions. That’s why I don’t drink alcohol, I’ve never smoked, and I do functional exercises (@e.viannapersonal) that help me improve my breathing. I go to the gym (@aquafishacademia) to improve my strength and I also do Pilates @ethostreinamento, which helps me with mobility and recovery. In addition, I spend as much time in the water as possible on good days. The mental part has always been good, but when the body is well prepared it gets even better.
- You’re one of the most well-known locals in Itacoatiara. Can you tell us what your life is like now and what living in this paradise brings to your day-to-day? What does this beach mean to your career?
My history with Itacoatiara goes deeper than bodyboarding. My grandfather owned half of the land there. My father managed things and I am lucky enough to enjoy this paradise. Being a native of this place prepared me for waves from all over the world, on the other hand, I always try to promote these waves to a specific tourism, who enjoys them with awareness and respect. Itacoatiara is in my blood.
- What are your current and future projects?
I’m not much of a planner. I like to see a swell and go. I want to go to Mexico on a big swell this year. Maybe compete in Iquique, Itacoatiara and Fronton… I also have a really cool conversation with Science and I think good things will happen.
- Who were your role models and idols in bodyboarding?
I often say that Mike Stewart created bodyboarding and GT revolutionized it. They somehow influenced everyone. After that, Ben Player, Ryan Hardy and Mitch Rawlins were the ones I watched the most in movies.
- You’ve traveled all over the world. What are your favorite places and waves? Is there any wave you still want to surf that you haven’t had the chance to yet?
If bodyboarding had a degree, I think every black belt should challenge Teahupoo, Pipeline and El Fronton. They are the best and most challenging waves in the world. I would like to surf Jaws in paddling conditions; it is a lifelong goal of mine.
- Send a message to the young folks just starting out in bodyboarding.
I have had a bodyboarding school for 23 years. I often tell my students that the sport has not yet become a reality. It is difficult to motivate someone without many guarantees. It worked for me! I make a living from it, but I believe it is something rare. That is why it is important to have fun, live the lifestyle and be happy. Buying brands that invest in the sport also means living the sport in a healthy way. Knowing that your money will go back into the game.
- How do you see the current level of bodyboarding? Name a few riders who catch your attention.
I honestly think we are living in a time where evolution has slowed down. 10 years ago I would have written down more than 20 names without knowing who was the best. Today I see Tanner McDaniel way ahead of everyone. I really like watching Matias Dias too.
- Remind us of your best and worst moments in competition.
My best moment was in a heat at Pipeline against none other than: Ben Player, PLC and Ryan Hardy. It couldn’t have been more difficult. There were 5 minutes left, I was in 3rd and needed a 7 point and had the 4th priority. A wave passed by them, Ryan tried to paddle but gave up. I didn’t have much of a choice, it was for Backdoor and it looked like it was going to close, but I went for the barrel with all my faith, it was a long tube and thank God I managed to get out and even did an Invert at the end. I did an 8 and something and got to 1st place. When I got back to the outside, Ben asked me what I had done because he heard the beach screaming… hahaha it was amazing!!
Worst moment… hmmmm… I don’t take the competition that seriously. I like to be there to improve myself. That’s why losing has never been so bad… except when I don’t agree with the scores. It’s happened a few times. It’s really bad, but I’m not one to complain. I forget about it quickly!!
- Share some travel stories or anecdotes with us.
The Fronton Pro was on hold because a giant swell was hitting the islands. We went to see those bizarre waves and when we passed in front of El Agujero I saw a really good one. I was excited to go in but the ocean was really stormy. When we came back, another wave broke in the middle of that mess. I didn’t think twice, I grabbed my bodyboard and went in. I soon managed to position myself in the right place and caught a giant and perfect barrel! It was like a dream!! After about 4 more amazing barrels I left and heard from a super local that it was one of the best barrels he had seen at that spot. It was a great honor for me to hear that.
- There’s been a world circuit event in Brazil for 12 years now, and last year it was considered the best event of the IBC World Tour. What do you think about the Itacoatiara Pro, and why is it considered one of the best beach breaks in the world?
The Itacoatiara Pro was Giuliano Lara dream that was almost impossible to achieve. I was there and saw that this guy persevered to build what this event is today. Luiz Carlos Gallo, the city’s sports secretary, believed in this dream and made it happen. Itacoatiara has always done its part by providing the best ramps for the craziest maneuvers. The public loves all of this!!! It really is a show and deserves all this recognition.
- Have you ever had a moment while surfing where you thought your life was in danger?
Almost a year ago, I had my worst surfing accident. It was the biggest swell in years. I was on my second session at the end of the day. I caught a wave that wasn’t the biggest of the day, but it was very vertical. I dropped in the air and when I got to the base, I lost control and did a front flip. In the middle of a super violent wipe out, I hit the sandbank with all my head. At that moment, I realized that I was kind of sleepy and if I slept, I wouldn’t survive. My left arm lost all strength, it was like it wasn’t part of my body. Shut down! I struggled to submerge with just one arm and when I managed to, there was another, even bigger wave behind me. I swam as best I could and barely made it through. I thought I wouldn’t be able to get out on my own and called the rescue helicopter, but the sea gave me a break and I made it. I’m not 100% recovered yet, I feel some pain. But I’m almost there. God gave me another chance.
- Here’s a space for you to thank, mention, or elaborate on anything you’d like:
Thank you very much for the space and the words of recognition. Thanks to my sponsors Science, SGA Toyota and Star Point for believing in my projects. I thank God for the life I have and for making all my dreams come true. I hope that IBC grows every year, providing to the riders the best waves and increasingly better prizes.
Valeu galera!!!
Youtube: @DuduPedra
Instagram: @dudupedra
