Raquel Heckert is not your typical surfer—she’s a fearless big wave hunter, renowned for her boldness and dedication to the sport. Known for her kind and humble personality off the waves, Heckert transforms when she hits the water, charging some of the most challenging waves with unmatched grit and determination.
Now based on the North Shore, Heckert trains relentlessly at iconic surf spots like Waimea and Sunset Beach. But her journey to becoming one of Brazil’s top big wave surfers wasn’t always smooth. Growing up in Brazil, she dreamed of becoming a surfer after watching people ride waves, but in a male-dominated sport, it wasn’t easy to get started. Despite the challenges, Heckert’s passion pushed her to keep surfing, eventually leading her to become the first woman to get barreled at “Shock,” a notoriously difficult wave in Rio de Janeiro. It was clear that she wasn’t just any surfer—Raquel was something exceptional.
In the short film FIVE MINUTES with Raquel Heckert by Freaks of Nature, Heckert shares how her father introduced her to surfing, and her grandfather supported her along the way. Since gaining recognition as a top surfer, Heckert has become an inspiration to women worldwide, receiving messages from aspiring female surfers seeking advice and tips on tackling bigger waves and perfecting their barrel rides.
Filmmaker Carl Nard captures Heckert’s unique aura: “Raquel has this way about her that makes you forget any worries. She truly enjoys every aspect of life, and it’s clear she’s completely in love with surfing and passionate about what she does.”
While Heckert’s dedication is evident, her journey hasn’t been without sacrifice. She admits, “I haven’t spent Christmas with my family in over 10 years. But my faith and passion for surfing keep me motivated to follow my dreams, no matter the cost.”