The remarkable journey of Katrina Kruze from Latvia, who started surfing in the autumn of 2020 and took her first wave at Nazare in December of 2024.
Katrina, how did you get from Latvia into big wave surfing?
Honestly, I have no clue. I always dreamed about surfing — I just remember suddenly having this feeling of, “Oh, I want to surf.” But where the big wave part came from, I have no idea. My friend actually reminded me that five years ago, when I started surfing, I told her, “I want to surf well enough to surf Nazaré.” I had completely forgotten about that! It’s interesting that somehow, consciously or unconsciously, I already felt that it wasn’t impossible — that it was possible.
What or who inspired you, and why Nazaré?
It was the wave itself that inspired me. I didn’t know a single surfer who surfed Nazaré until last year when I decided that I wanted to surf it. Then I looked on Instagram to see who was actually doing it. But truly, it was the wave — it just looked so fun, powerful, and pure, like Mother Nature in her rawest form. If I can be part of that, it’s magical. I also never felt drawn to just go and watch others surf it — I wanted to experience it myself.
It’s all about the energy you put out into the world. Be authentic, pure, and happy — and just do you.
How has the experience been for you?
So far, it has been one of the biggest “wow” things I’ve ever done — truly life-changing and emotionally fulfilling.
Last year, though, it was quite hard because I didn’t know anyone there. I went completely alone. I was new to Portugal, with no friends or family around, so I just went for it and trusted the people I met. I had to figure everything out on my own, and after surfing Nazaré, I’d drive home full of emotions — trying to process everything, wanting to share it, but doing it all for myself. I remember putting on some music in the car, singing, and crying from happiness because I had done it for me. It didn’t matter if no one saw it. I just felt this extreme joy and deep gratitude.
Last winter came with a lot of questions and insane joy. This year, I already understand how everything works, so I feel more grounded and able to just enjoy it.
What have been the best and most challenging parts?
The best part has definitely been seeing how many girls feel inspired — realizing that this is actually achievable. Some of my friends have already followed in my steps this year, reaching out to me for advice, and it feels so beautiful to be able to support them and maybe make their road a bit easier than mine was.
Of course, feeling the raw power of nature and being part of it is simply indescribable — something you never forget.
The most challenging part is definitely the cost of the sport. I’ve been using my own money, and it’s very expensive. I can’t afford to train as often as I’d like — only to go when it’s big enough to be “worth it,” in a way. But it’s okay, because if it were easy, Nazaré would be as crowded and dangerous as Pipeline. Everyone has to make their own path.
I also deeply respect all the jet ski drivers — they have incredible skills and literally save lives. So I wouldn’t call it “the worst” part — just the most challenging. All in all, I’m just filled with so much joy and gratitude.
Is the big wave surf community supportive of you?
Yes, the big wave surfing community is very supportive. Of course, every team focuses on their own safety and goals — they don’t have time to take care of everyone — but the team I’m with, Naze Jet Team, has been amazing. The spotters, drivers, and athletes have taken me in like a sister and always support me. In the water, there’s cheering and encouragement, and I’m really grateful for that. Also “Kersy Strauss” brand is helping me a bit this year, which means a lot.
At the same time, it’s a serious sport — people invest a lot of money and risk their lives — so everyone supports each other as much as they can, within those limits. However, in the water and out of the water cheers and celebration are always felt at Nazare for one another.
What you are doing is a real inspiration. What would you say to other women who want to chase their dreams?
I would say: focus on becoming a better human being and understanding yourself. When you do that, you naturally create positive and powerful energy around you — and that energy helps you achieve your dreams. The answers and guidance start coming more easily. Also in the process you understand which dreams you have because they really mean something to you.
It’s all about the energy you put out into the world.
Be authentic, pure, and happy — and just do you.
