this widespread culture surrounding wakeboarding led to the creation of a few 'carioca' champions - mariana martins, born in the 'marvelous city', was the female champion in 2001, 2003 and 2004. an example of dedication, she broke a foot two times and still soldiered on to win more titles.

one of the most popular locations to wakeboard in the city is rio wake center located at the end of rua garcia d'avila on the lagao rodrigo de freitas - the centre provides lessons and equipment hire, and can be reached at (21) 9976-7147 or (21) 2239-6976 .