Gabriel Medina in the Land of Lefts. Photo: Rip Curl//YouTube
Gabriel Medina is a divisive figure. No matter what he does, it seems to kick up heartfelt reactions, both positive and negative. Hell, one time all he did was kick out of a wave and it took the world by storm, before being followed by an inevitable backlash.
The one thing that isn’t divisive, though, is that the man can surf. Take him out of the context of competitions, fans and the general culture of surfing, and you’re left with a singular talent that produces some of the best rides you’ve ever seen.
Luckily, that’s exactly what freesurfing is for.
A prime example comes from a recent offering from Rip Curl, titled “Terra Das Esquerdas,” or “Land of Lefts.” The title refers to Peru’s bevy of left-handers, including the left-hand point break, Pacasmayo. Officially named “Playa El Faro” for its distinctive lighthouse, the wave is a sort of sister-wave to the more widely known Chicama and, like it’s older sibling, it’s a goofy footer’s dream.
“Filmed by Lucas Balbino, ‘Terra Das Esquerdas,’ or ‘Land of The Lefts’ for the non-Portuguese speakers, is the result of a last-minute decision to jump on a plane to chase a swell,” explains the caption. “At its core, this clip captures a feeling that every surfer can relate to; the urge to round up your crew, drop everything, and head out in search of good waves.“
