Discoverers of the Week: Discoverers Who Surf
These Discoverers are totally radical -- on and off the water. Both Belinda Baggs and Matt Cuddihy have a passion for the ocean. Whether they're catching waves off the coast of Australia, advocating for conservation, or snapping incredible photos, these Discoverers are our blue crushes.
How did you get into surfing?
Belinda
"My father surfs so I grew up in the sand and on the beach. After learning to swim and sand castles becoming boring, surfing was a natural progression - almost like a rite-of-passage in my family."
Matt
"I can always remember riding a bodyboard as a kid. Then when I was about 14 I rented a longboard with a friend and I was hooked."
Where is your favorite place in the world to surf and why?
Belinda
"I really love being exposed to wild places - surrounded by dramatic landscapes that make you feel small as a human. For that reason I really love surfing on the southern coast of Australia."
Matt
"Noosa Heads, QLD, Australia. It has amazing waves and a beautiful national park that starts at the water's edge. It’s also the place I call home."
Why do you love surfing?
Belinda
"This is a question I have never been able to put into words. Riding a wave brings this feeling, a feeling that for a second makes us forget everything from our life on land and connects you with the sea- becoming part of the natural world and not removing ourselves from it. You're ignited by the power."
Matt
"It’s always on my mind and never to far away. It's something I've always loved and am passionate about, it's good for the body and the mind. It's enjoyed by people from all walks of life and you don’t have to be the greatest surfer to enjoy it. If there is a smile on your face then you're doing it right."
Do you have any other passions outside of surfing?
Belinda
"I am really passionate about preserving our natural environment. The best place to start is within your own lifestyle and the choices you make.This includes the food we eat. Being conscious of the environmental footprint of our diet and also health benefits, I enjoy cooking meals for my family and friends."
Matt
"When the surf is flat I’m normally traveling around in my van looking for surf or out on 2 wheels learning the art of trail riding. I have always enjoyed photography and most of the time I have a camera around my neck. I like to try capture the in between moments that are often missed and the first and last 15 mins of golden light always gets me excited to get behind the camera."