The Amazing Maya Gabeira

Maya Gabeira is probably the best female big wave surfer ever.

You’d be forgiven if you’ve never heard of her, Maya does not receive nor seek the exposure given to the elite ladies on the Women’s ASP tour. However her surfing achievements are extraordinary.

Who is Maya Gabeira?

Here’s a snapshot of Maya Gabeira’s C.V.

Date of birth: 9th April 1987
Place of birth: Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Achievements:

• 2009 – ESPY Award for Best Female Action Sports Athlete
• 2009 – Surfed 45ft wave at Dungeons – biggest wave ever ridden by a female
• 2010 – Billabong Girls Best Overall Performance for 4th year running
• 2012 – Featured in ESPN’s Body Issue
• 2013 – Gabeira lost consciousness and nearly drowned at Nazaré, Portugal

Address: North Shore of Oahu
Other interests: Running, yoga
Marital status: Currently dating Jesse Spencer (Dr Chase in House)
Contact: https://twitter.com/#!/mgabeira

More about Maya

Maya Gabeira had a more privileged upbringing than many kids in Rio De Janiero. Thanks to her father – an iconic politician and founding member of the Green Party in Brazil, and her mother – a well-known fashion designer. That all changed when her parents divorced, Maya was 11 years old. By the age of 14 Maya spent her time drinking, smoking, and hanging out on the beach whilst her boyfriend surfed for hours.

Tired of her lifestyle and waiting around for her ex-boyfriend, she took to the water herself. Whilst Maya did not become an over-night surfing sensation, a series of events including teaming up with big wave surfer Carlos Burle and moving to Hawaii still in her teens – lead to a shining surfing career. Keep charging Maya.

Here’s a visual celebration of Maya Gabeira’s talents:

See the Maya Gabeira Photos page for more great surfing images.