Quick Catch Up with Isabel Blanco

Team rider Isabel “Chabe” Blanco hails from Mazunte, Oaxaca MX. She’s one of the top women in the sport and shreds to prove it! 2025 was kind of a bummer year for her with injuries but that’s part of the game…we caught up with her to see how she was doing and what she has planned for 2026. Check it out below. And make sure to drop her a follow on Instagram now!

HAMMER: Hey! How’s it going? What’s new?
Isabel: Hey, getting better after my injury. Ready to start a new year!

HAMMER: Sorry about your injury! How did it happen and when will you be able to hit the water again?
Isabel: So, I got injured the first time in a wave at Sununga in February but then again in another competition in May. I didn’t know I needed surgery until September so it has been a long year…but the doctor said I’ll be back by February so I’m pushing to get there!

HAMMER: You’ll be back in no time! What are your plans for the 2026 season?
Isabel: I'm still waiting to hear from the United Skim Tour about the stops and dates and after that I'll be able to plan my year! I definitely want to compete but have to plan accordingly.

HAMMER: What was your favorite moment from 2025?
Isabel: Without a doubt, being able to travel around Brazil. It’s such a cool place!

HAMMER: What about your least favorite?
Isabel: That I had to have two surgeries…one to remove my appendix and the other for my knee!

HAMMER: What was the best spot you skimmed this year?
Isabel: Rio de Janeiro, Leblon

HAMMER: What was so special about it?
Isabel: Just feeling the vibe from the city while you’re skimming at the beach! I could have gone all night.

HAMMER: Thanks for chatting with us. Is there anyone you’d like to thank or anything else you’d like to share?
Isabel: Yes, I’m so thankful to the sponsors that stayed with me in this really difficult year, trusting in my strength and hunger to come back, compete, and win! And to my friends and my closest ones that have supported me unconditionally. You know who you are!