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Despite facing a daunting challenge after breaking her nose, Candelaria Resano emerged as a symbol of unwavering spirit and determination. Now hailed as the “Band-Aid Girl,” fearlessly tackling Teahupo’o’s legendary waves, all in pursuit of her ultimate dream: the Paris Olympics.

In the pristine beauty of Tahiti, where azure waters lap against white sand beaches, most travelers seek the perfect vacation snapshot. However, for Candelaria Resano, her Tahitian memories are etched with black eyes and a plaster on her nose. Far from a typical tourist tale, Resano’s journey to Teahupo’o encapsulates the resilience and determination of a true adventurer.

How Candelaria Resano conquered Teahupo’o against all odds

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When Candelaria Resano’s surfboard collided with her nose on the first day of her Teahupo’o surf camp, many would have seen it as a sign to retreat. However, for Resano, it was merely a hurdle to overcome. Despite her doctor’s instructions to avoid submerging her head underwater, Resano remained undeterred. Instead of letting her injury dictate her actions, she chose to embrace the challenge head-on, quite literally. Surfing Teahupo’o without going underwater became her audacious goal, a testament to her indomitable spirit.

For Resano, Teahupo’o isn’t just a wave; it’s a relentless force of nature that beckons her with its siren call. Despite the risks and the pain, her love for this legendary surf spot remains unyielding. “I just love that wave. I’ve never had the chance to get to know it,” Resano told Olympics.com. “If I didn’t go back out there, I would be so mad.” With eyes set on the horizon, Resano’s dreams of returning to Teahupo’o as an Olympian seems to be possible with such aspiration.

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Road to Olympic triumph

Candelaria Resano eagerly shares her aspirations of competing in the Olympics at Teahupo’o. Her determination ignited four years before learning of the venue for the upcoming Olympic Games. Since then, she has tirelessly pursued her goal, earning qualifications for prestigious events such as the 2023 Pan American Games and securing a commendable position in the 2023 ISA World Surfing Games. As the 2024 ISA World Surfing Games approaches, Resano eyes another opportunity to showcase her prowess, vying for one of the coveted eight individual women’s quotas. Additionally, she stands as a formidable contender for a universality spot at Paris 2024, a selection made by the Olympic Games Tripartite Commission.

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Should the opportunity to represent her country at the Olympics arise, Resano approaches it with a well-devised strategy, determined to equip herself fully and avoid any repeat injuries. Her commitment and resolve serve as a testament to her unwavering pursuit of excellence in her sport.

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