The 2024 Paris Olympics are set to welcome Sufing for the second time since its debut at the 2020 Tokyo Games. The unique event will however not be held in Paris, but instead in Teahupo’o, located on the island of Tahiti in French Polynesia where waves are known to be challenging.

BC native Sanoa Olin was born into a family deeply rooted in surfing, beginning the sport at a young age and quickly showing exceptional talent, before long she became the youngest female surfer to win the Tofino Rip Curl Pro at just 12 years old. Since then, she has quickly earned a series of impressive achievements including multiple ISA World Junior Championships, and a standout performance at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games where she won a silver medal in the women’s shortboard event. This victory secured her place at the Paris 2024 Olympics and put her on track to be the first Canadian to compete in an Olympic surfing event.

Ahead, we caught up with Sanoa Olin as she prepares to make history at the Paris Olympics to talk about her love for surfing, role models and how she defines success.

S: There are a lot of firsts at the 2024 Olympics. How does it feel to have surfing recognized at this year’s games? 

SO: “Having surfing recognized in the Olympic Games is so big for the sport. It’s great for all the athletes who dedicate so much to surfing to be recognized on that level.”

What made you fall in love with surfing?

“The adventures and the lifestyle that surfing brings and the feeling of riding a wave. That, along with the way it connects you to the ocean and nature, is why I fell in love with surfing.”

To compete at this level takes a lot of physical strength and discipline, but there’s also the mental aspect. Do you have any rituals you swear by before a competition? 

“My rituals will change a bit with each event, but I have little things that I like to say to myself, sort of like a mantra before competing.”

How do you define success?

“I define success with fulfillment. That is from a combination of the effort you put in the results you get the person you are throughout the journey and the people you surround yourself with.”

At this year’s Olympics, it will be the first time there’s gender parity. Why do you think this is so important? 

“There are lots of reasons why this is important. One of the biggest reasons in my opinion is by giving greater prominence to women’s events.”

Are there any role models or people who have been important in your journey as an athlete and surfer?

“I’ve had so many important people and role models in my life. My mom, sister and whole family have always pushed and inspired me. As well as the surfers I looked up to growing up and the trainers and coaches I have gotten to work with.”

Where’s your favourite place to surf?

“It is so hard to pick just one place. I love home and the fun adventures and surf trips I get to go on around here, as well as all the good memories associated with home. Tofino is one of my favourite places to surf. My other two favourite places would be Hawaii and Tahiti. The water is so warm and beautiful, and I love the waves and the islands.”

How does it feel representing Canada?

“Representing Canada feels amazing. Canadian surfing has come so far and it is still growing so much. Being able to represent my community and the town I grew up in alongside all the surfers who I’ve gotten to look up to from home and who have helped me to improve over the years is really special.”