Author: Lima 2019 press release Lima, 11 September 2019

LIMA 2019 AMBASSADOR WINS SURFING WORLD TITLE IN JAPAN

Sofia Mulanovich reached the top of the podium in the open surfing event at the 2019 ISA World Surfing Games held in Japan. Next year, she will attempt to qualify for Tokyo 2020.

Foto: ISA/Pablo JImenez

Fifteen years after her first world title, one of the most notable Peruvian athletes of all time made history once again in surfing. Sofia Mulanovich, Lima 2019 Ambassador, won the open surfing event at the ISA World Games (International Surfing Association) that took place in Japan. It was a much-wanted comeback for fans of this sport.

Mulanovich, who won the same title at the 2004 World Cup in Ecuador, competed against the elite of the World Surf League (WSL), and managed to defeat them with excellent maneuvers that showcased her enduring skills. “Sofi” trained with dedication and, although she is not ranked in the world circuit, this is a message that, at 36, she can still achieve great things.

“This means everything to me. I'm very happy and excited. It's amazing to come here and celebrate. That's what this is all about: celebrating and loving sports. I can feel the magic. Everything I've won in my life is so emotional. All I've won is because everything fell into place. It's a dream come true,” said the Peruvian at the end of the competition.

Sofia prevailed over surfing stars such as Brazilian Silvana Lima, South African Bianca Buitendag and American Carissa Moore, who were unable to reach the Peruvian surfer's scores. Her next goal will be reaching one of the last seven quota places at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, which will be awarded at the 2020 ISA World Cup, to be held between April and May next year.

“As a child, I never dreamed of competing in the Olympics, because I was a long way from that, but now it's possible. It's a dream come true for everyone to represent your country at the biggest event in the world. I hope I get to go next year and carry the flag,” commented Sofia on the possibility of qualifying.

The Lima 2019 Ambassador participated in the official broadcast of the Games as a commentator. In addition, she visited the High Performance Surfing Center built at Punta Rocas Beach on several occasions. Her comeback to the world's biggest competitions is great news for all sports lovers.