Tia Blanco cares a lot... She cares about winning (won the 2015 ISA Gold Medal). She cares about her body (trains daily, eats mindfully). She cares about the planet (takes a stand on important issues). So we couldn't have been more excited when Tia reached out to us saying how much she loved our Beyond Chicken Strips. With her success in surfing and passion for an active, healthy lifestyle, we couldn't have picked a more ideal ambassador. And so Tia joined the growing ranks of elite athletes helping to communicate--by example--the benefits of plant-based protein.

Surfing since the age of 3, Tia has been paddling almost as long she's been walking! But as surfing went from being a hobby to a possible career, she recognized the need to gain an edge. Tia began experimenting with a plant-based diet 3 years ago and has never looked back since. The benefits from sustained energy and lack of fatigue time have translated into her becoming one of the most accomplished surfers for her age: "My body just responds very well to the [plant-based] diet. I feel lively, strong, and happy!" In the coming year Tia will be one of the top candidates in qualifying for the World Surfing League Champions Tour.

In addition to being one of the most promising young surfers in the world, she's a very talented cook. You won't find her eating the same salad every day, her plate is always full of fresh and creative recipes inspired by all the excellent places she's been able to visit through surfing. Check out her instagram account and her Q&A below to see what's cooking in Tia's Kitchen!