Chia is Mexico’s first competitive surf dog. Her story begins as a stray pup on the streets of Sayulita, Mexico. In February 2020, a rescued Brussels Griffon-Pug mix (affectionately known as a “Brug”) found her people. Risa Mara Machuca and her partner Diego adopted her, and Chia has been making waves ever since. Risa is the founder and owner of Surf It Out, a boutique surf school in Sayulita. She runs it alongside Diego Ulises Bernal Lara, a competitive champion shortboarder. Together they create customized surf experiences, day trips, and specialized multi-day programs. Chia is the school’s Official Chief Surfing Assistant, and she takes the job seriously. She surfs with students to help build their confidence in the water. Chia’s impact reaches beyond the lineup. She partners with Olas Para Todos to give children with disabilities the chance to experience the ocean on a surfboard, and she takes part in youth camps. She is also a pioneer. Chia made history as the first Mexican team to compete at the World Dog Surfing Championships in Pacifica, California, and she is widely known as Mexico’s first competitive surf dog.