Blanco, a Trestles local, has become one of the hottest up and coming West Coast surfers. Being a daughter of a Coast Guard, Blanco was born in Puerto Rico and has lived in Hawaii as well as several spots in Southern California. This graceful goofyfoot is a member of the prestigious Surfing America team. She also an Ambassador for Reef’s boots, shoes, and fashion-forward sandals that combine exotic styling with instant comfort. Additionally, Blanco is committed to Surfing America Prime and NSSA events, she is extremely well rounded, enjoying painting and yoga while living a vegan lifestyle. While she is focused on a National title and maintaining her 4.0 GPA at Connections Academy, her long term goal is to make the ASP Women’s World Tour.
Click Here Get Beach Ready and Healthy Year Round with Tia Blanco!
Follow Tia @tiablanco
Tell us a little about you?
I am a 17 year old vegan surfer from California. I love my family, friends, and pets endlessly. I love surfing with all my heart. My hobbies are traveling, hiking, painting, and adventuring.
How did you end up doing professional surfing?
My dad is in the Coast Guard so we always found ourselves living on the coasts. It was only naturally for my family to always be at the beach and to surf. There came a point in my life where I really enjoyed competing and progressing in my surfing.
What did your parents say when you first took up surfing?
I don’t really remember. My dad taught me when I was 3 years old. When I started committing to the sport they supported and encouraged me to live out my dream.
Any of your family members are surfers too?
Yes! My sister and dad surf 🙂 My dad’s side of the family surfs as well!
At what point did you know surfing was going to be more than just a hobby for you?
When I started making goals for myself and getting sponsors.
How do you stay motivated?
I love to study people who inspire me. Basically all the women on the WCT are all my inspirations and they get me motivated anytime I watch them surf.
What do you think you would want to be if you weren’t a surfer?
I think I would desire to be a painter because it is really peaceful. Its a way I can express myself and be creative. I enjoy silencing everything out and focusing on painting.
What’s the best part of what you do?
The best part of what I do is traveling the world and getting to surf the best surf spots in the world. There are so many priceless experiences that I have encountered while traveling and I am so thankful I get to do what I love.
Where has been your favorite place to travel or surf?
Definitely Tahiti, it is like a dream.
How did Reef approach you to be your sponsor?
The creative director found me on Instagram haha!
What’s your daily fitness routine like?
I like to stay active every single day. I love to surf, train, hike, run, practice piyo or yoga, or swim.
What’s your Diet to be fit?
I eat a vegan diet.
How do you keep your skin protected from the sun and saltwater?
I use an organic sunscreen brand called Hippo Sweat. I am constantly cleansing and moisturizing my skin.
3 things you can’t live without?
Food, water, and sunshine ;;)
Any advice for young kids that want to follow your steps?
Follow your dreams, work hard, and never let someone tell you what you can and can not do.
Do you have any tattoos?
No, but I love them! Maybe one day.
What other tips you can give our readers about fitness and health?
I say eat vegan, love yourself, stay active, get adventurous, and drink lots of water.
Any future plans that want to share with us?
I might go to China soon to surf in a competition!
What kind of music do you like and what you don’t?
I love music so much. I love the way songs makes me feel in that very moment I am listening to it. I don’t think I dislike any music. My music choices depend on my moods. Right now I am really into Lorde, Rihanna, Ariana Grande, Beyonce, and Sam Smith.
Favorite Movie: Hmm I don’t have a favorite. I thought the movie LUCY was pretty interesting.
Quote: Be the person your dog thinks you are!
Actress/Actor: Brad Pitt.
Drink: Water.
Food: Fruit.
