Gabriel Medina (BRA), 18, joins the list of elite surfers on the Oakley Team.
FOOTHILL RANCH, California (Wednesday, February 5, 2013) -Gabriel Medina, one of the most dynamic aerial surfers in the world and one of the most promising young talents ever to come out of Brazil, has joined Oakley’s Global surf team. The 19-year-old surfer from Sao Paulo, who finished in the top 10 on the prestigious Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) World Championship Tour in 2012, joins an already star-studded surf team which now becomes all that more formidable.
“We’re very excited to add Gabriel Medina to our elite Global surf team. We’re big fans of his surfing and what Gabriel has accomplished in the sport. Between his aggressive approach to aerial innovation and his passion for competition, we believe that he is a perfect fit for the Oakley family,” said Patrick McIlvain, Oakley VP Global Sports Marketing. “Adding Gabriel’s name to a team that already includes the likes of Julian Wilson, Bruce Irons, Jordy Smith, Kolohe Andino, Seabass and more, we believe we’ve got one of the most dynamic teams in the industry. We can’t wait to see what will come from these guys in 2013 and beyond.”
Ever since qualifying for the WCT during the mid-year reshuffle in 2011, Medina has proven that he belongs among the best surfers in the world. He won two WCT events that first year and has since established himself as a fan-favorite and one of the most dangerous competitors on Tour. All of which bodes well for his said goal: being the first Brazilian shortboarder to bring home a world title.
Away from competition, Medina is also at the forefront of innovation, having recently landed a backflip while free-surfing in Hawaii.
“I am very happy that everything has worked out. I have always wanted to be part of the Oakley team,” Medina said. “I ́m sure it will be a great partnership.”
Plans are already in the works to release a signature series sunglass with Medina by the end of 2013.
Watch Medina compete at the season opening Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast.
