Mar del Plata native Lucía Indurain had to work hard to obtain results at an international level. After an impeccable career as a junior and dominating the Open in her country, for one reason or another, her surfing did not translate into significant results in international events.

She had to endure several frustrations, losing heats in the first round and in such a way that they were far from her level, but she had the enormous strength to turn them around. This year she already has two podiums, two third places in two QSs 1500, the first was in Iquique, Chile and the second came last Sunday in Lacanau.

It rose 20 places in the ranking and now sits well inside the top 100 at 71st position.

In the rush of the hectic European leg that has athletes bouncing from one place to another, DUKE spoke briefly with Lucia about the result obtained.

How did you achieve this third place? What was the key?
I've been training hard to achieve results in the QSs. The first events of the year didn't go so well for one reason or another. I was missing that dose of luck, but now I'm very happy that I can get it here in France. I still can't believe it, honestly.

You've been training hard for a while, physically, and surfing a lot in the cold of Mar del Plata, all with this goal in mind. It must be exciting to see that you can achieve your goals. How do you experience it?
I trained a lot physically and technically because this year I was determined to do the European tour and I came really eager to get a result and I got it here in Lacanau.

On the other hand, you traveled with the support of your family and friends who gathered together to raise money and help you. Did having that support play a role in your favor at the time of the competition?
Yes, there were many people who supported me, I am immensely grateful because without them I would not have been able to be here and have the opportunity to compete. I dedicate this to all those people who contributed their grain of sand, know that the triumph belongs to everyone and also to my family, which was enormous.

How is everything now?
We have just arrived in Anglet and the other championship starts on Thursday so I am focused on continuing, obviously thirsty to reach the grand final. I was one step away, but we are going with a cool head again, to reset and start another championship again.