American surfer Carissa Moore knows Tahiti’s ‘scary’ Olympic wave. Here’s how she prepared

American surfer Carissa Moore is gearing up for a major challenge at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where surfing will make its debut at Teahupo’o, Tahiti. Known for its powerful and intimidating waves, Teahupo’o is often described as “scary” due to its shallow reef and massive swells. To excel in these conditions, Moore has been preparing extensively.

Teahupo’o is famous for its heavy, barreling waves that break over a shallow reef, creating a dramatic and potentially dangerous surf environment. The waves at Teahupo’o can be extremely powerful, requiring surfers to have exceptional skill and bravery. Moore, a two-time World Surf League (WSL) champion, has been training intensively to handle these challenging conditions.

Moore’s preparation has involved a combination of on-water practice and physical conditioning. She has been spending significant time surfing in similar conditions to get accustomed to the power and unpredictability of big waves. Her training includes rigorous fitness routines focused on building strength, agility, and endurance. She works on her paddling technique, wave reading, and maneuver execution to ensure she can handle the high stakes of the Olympic competition.

Mentally, Moore has been preparing by visualizing her performance and developing strategies to stay calm and focused under pressure. She understands that Teahupo’o demands not only physical skill but also mental resilience.

By immersing herself in challenging surf conditions and focusing on every aspect of her performance, Moore is positioning herself to make a strong impact at the Paris Olympics. Her preparation reflects her commitment to mastering one of the most formidable waves in surfing, demonstrating her determination to excel on the world stage.