Mexican Surfer Promotes Women's Surfing in the Philippines

In the world of surfing, two distinct styles dominate: modern surfing, characterized by shortboards that enable high-speed maneuvers, and classic surfing, which features longboards that emphasize balance and grace. Patricia Ornelas, a surfer from El Tibor in Guerrero, Mexico, embodies a unique fusion of these styles, often donning traditional attire such as a wine-colored huipil and a mauve skirt while riding the waves. Her viral video showcasing this blend has garnered significant attention, highlighting her connection to her roots. Ornelas gained further recognition in late 2022 during a surfing session at La Saladita, a beach just an hour from Michoacán. She emphasizes the cultural ties between Mexico and the Philippines, stemming from shared colonial histories, and serves as the Mexican ambassador for the Perlas project, which celebrates these connections. Her journey reflects a deep appreciation for her heritage and the ocean, which she describes as a lifelong dream. Growing up in a small community of just over 600 inhabitants, Ornelas credits her mother, a native of La Saladita, for instilling in her a love for the sea. Family visits to the beach were a staple of her childhood, nurturing her curiosity about the water. Although she moved away from the coast, her passion for surfing remained, leading her to seek guidance from Leonel Pérez, a Mexican coach who played a pivotal role in her development as a surfer. Through the Perlas project, Ornelas expresses gratitude for the opportunity to share her story and showcase her Mexican identity, blending the art of surfing with cultural pride.