Mai Mai - The Surf Angel On Cloud 9

The Philippines has become a major surfing destination among traveling surfers from all over the world thanks to it’s warm tropical waters, friendly locals, tasty food and perfect waves. But here you´ll also find many local surfer girls who are rippin´ and making waves! Beachcuties caught up with one of them, Ana Mae Alipayo, to find out about her surfing life.

 

PLEASE TELL US LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SURFING?

My name’s Mai Mai, I’m 18 years old. I come from Catangnan, Siargao Island, the surf capital of the Philippines. I've been surfing for a decade now and its crazy when I think about it because I kind of feel like I’m only halfway towards fulfilling my surf dreams. I’m quite serious in the surf, I stay focused and wait for the very best waves.

 

WHERE´S YOUR LOCAL BEACH AND WHAT´S IT LIKE THERE?

Tuason Point, just to the south of Cloud 9. I often go there for a surf check. The sand is so soft. I just sit there and watch the huge, powerful tubes. Some girls come here to sun bathe, but for me it’s a more inspiring place than that. It’s a place to aspire to. The surfers who can conquer Tuason Point can conquer the world.

 

WHO DO YOU SURF WITH?

I often surf with my brother, Peter Paul Alipayo. He showed me the world of surfing. He helps me with my surf technique and pushes me to catch bigger waves. I adore his style and he makes me jealous with his 16 surf championship trophies. Also I surf with my best friend Nilbie Blancada, the best Filipina Surfer, from whom I’ve learnt so much. She rips and always seems to be in the right spot.

 

WHERE DO YOU HANG OUT WHEN YOU´RE NOT IN THE OCEAN?

I hang out at Villa Maya Resort with my friends. Sometimes we skate on the Cloud 9 hill or go jogging to and from General Luna. 

 

WHAT IS IT THAT YOU LOVE SO MUCH ABOUT SURFING?

I love surfing because it makes everything feel better. It refreshes me and makes me a strong person by facing my fears and going out when waves are big, bold and scary. It has taught me patience and true love towards nature and the environment.

 

DO YOU COMPETE OR ARE YOU A FREE SURFER?

Yes I do compete! My first competition was the Siargao National Womens Surfing Cup and I got through to the final, even though I was only 10 years old. Two years after I started competing in the international competition. Last year I got in the semi final but I don’t think I can join this year, because I will be studying. I’m now a Second Year College Bachelor of Science in Psychology student at St Paul University in Surigao city.

 

WHAT ARE YOUR DREAMS FOR THE FUTURE?

To one day win the Women’s International Surfing Cup on Siargao Island. 

And to study hard, pass my BSc and become financially successful so I can help my family to live a better life.

 

WHERE´S YOUR FAVOURITE SURF BREAK IN THE PHILIPPINES?

Cloud 9 of course. It’s such a perfect wave and barrels nearly everyday even when it’s onshore.

 

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SAY TO OTHER SURF GIRLS AROUND THE WORLD?

Keep surfing as long as it makes you happy. Remember to study hard too. It’s great to surf, but you have to find a job one day too :)

 

Thank you so much for your time, Mai!

Please follow her IG: @anamaealipayo