Fred Shreds

Frederico Morais, 14

Cascais, Portugal

One of a hot young generation of Portuguese rippers, Frederico has been turning heads around the contest circuit for a couple of years now. At just 14, he came runner up in the U16 at the National Championships in 2005. That was no freak result mind, he finished 3rd in the Quiksilver Grommets Trophy in 2003, and won National titles at U12 and U14 in 2002, ‘03 and ‘04.

Frederico also competes on the Portuguese National Tour and in 2005 he even made the semis, surfing against seasoned pros a decade or more his senior. Whilst liking the freedom to take chances and try different moves that freesurfing offers, Fred confesses to being ‘More into contests really… being out with just 3 other guys, trying to do my best, that’s what I like.’

Getting his first barrel at just 8 years old, Fred’s early start has now materialised into a major young European talent. Sponsored by Quiksilver and riding Pukas surfboards, and taking coaching and advice from his father Nuno Morais (a former Portuguese pro rugby player), and surfers like Tiago Pires, all the ingredients are there to take Frederico to the next level.

But for now, in between smoking heats, Frederico still likes to hang out with his mates playing footie, Playstation or skateboarding. Self-confidence shouldn’t prove to be too big an obstacle for Fred, when pressed on who is the toughest guy to surf against in contests he replies, ‘Me.’

Frederico rides for Quiksilver, Vans, Pukas and Dr. Ding