Candelaria Resano, at just 18 years old, emerges each morning at 5:00 a.m. on the shores of Teahupo’o, Tahiti, ready to conquer what surfers universally regard as the most perilous waves on the planet. Her tireless dedication forms a crucial part of her rigorous training regimen as she prepares to make history as Nicaragua’s first Olympic surfer at the Paris Games commencing on July 26, 2024.
Resano’s journey to the Olympics began four years ago, fueled by a deep-rooted ambition to elevate her country’s presence on the global stage. “It’s an honor to represent Nicaragua,” she expresses with unwavering pride. “My journey wasn’t a recent decision—it started four years ago when I set my sights on these Olympics. I’ve poured my heart into every step, working relentlessly until I earned my place.”
In June, Resano traveled to Tahiti, the idyllic setting where the Olympic surfing competition will unfold. Tahiti’s treacherous beaches, notorious for their shallow coral bottoms and fierce waves, pose significant risks even for seasoned surfers. Resano herself endured a setback in July 2023, suffering a broken nose during a training camp when an errant board struck her—a stark reminder of the dangers she faces in pursuit of her Olympic dream.
At the upcoming Games, Resano will compete against 23 surfers from across the globe, standing as the sole representative from Central America in the women’s competition. Her goal is unequivocal: “to make history and bring home Nicaragua’s first Olympic surfing medal.”
Securing her place in the Olympics came through one of the two “universality places” granted by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), a recognition of her exceptional skill and Nicaragua’s limited historical representation in the sport. “To qualify,” Resano explains, “I needed to rank within the top 30 in the last two world championships. They assess your ability and determine if you’re ready for the Olympics.”
Surfing isn’t just a sport for Resano—it’s a passion that has shaped her life. Since competing in her first contest at age six, she has dedicated herself to mastering the waves, embodying discipline, competitiveness, and fearlessness. Her journey has demanded sacrifices, from foregoing traditional schooling for online classes to investing her savings into tournament participation.
Balancing her athletic pursuits with academic rigor, Resano studies through distance-learning programs at two international schools, mastering French and English while preparing to embark on a finance degree at Point Loma Nazarene University. “Being an athlete demands a lot,” she reflects. “I’m dedicated to my studies, and soon, university. It’s about focus and commitment.”
For Resano, the path to Olympic glory isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s a testament to resilience and determination. With unwavering support from her family and the Nicaraguan Olympic Committee, she is poised to make waves at the Paris Games, aiming to inspire a nation and etch her name in Olympic history.
