EP 227: Tiago ‘Saca’ Pires – Being the first Portuguese surfer to qualify for the CT, His ‘obstinate’ determination to become a pro surfer despite skepticism from his community, Growing up in Lisbon, the Wave at Supertubos, and Life after Tour

The first Portuguese surfer to ever qualify for the Championship
Tour, surfing legend Tiago Pires joins us on The Lineup. Calling in
from his post-competitive venture, Twin Fin Agency, Tiago takes us
through his transition from World Tour competitor to athlete
management, social media strategy, and event organization. He opens
up about the mental toll of his final year on tour, how fatherhood
shifted his perspective, and what it was like growing up as a
surfer in 1990s Lisbon. We dive into Supertubos ahead of the MEO
Rip Curl Pro Portugal Presented by Corona Cero, breaking down what
makes the wave so unpredictable, the conditions to expect, and
who’s looking dangerous in the lineup. Tiago also takes us back to
his roots—overcoming childhood fear of the ocean, the stoke from
catching his first wave, and the relentless drive that pushed him
from Portugal’s small surf scene to international success. We wrap
things up with answering your Instagram questions and a rapid-fire
Lightning Round. Learn more about Tiago here and follow him here
Play WSL CT Fantasy contest and join The Lineup Podcast Mega League
for a chance to win! Terms and Conditions apply. Stay tuned for the
MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal Presented By Corona Cero, Mar 15 - 25.
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