Diet and Vitamins you list as big parts of your training – what’s your program?
TF – I usually take 1x multi vitamin pack a day. During the fitness training I take Amino’s, Glutamine, and a shake to keep the muscles healthy. Nothing special compared to other athletes. I’m just trying to keep it as healthy as possible. During the events – Vitamin C, Fish Oil and Amino’s are my best friends. As far as eating I like bread with honey, and I keep away from mayonnaise, ketchup and french-fries. During the comps I also take a protein shake during or after the race to recover fast, but honey, water and small energy bars are best at the beach. Also anything boiled is number one.
“ If you can handle and control your gear, you will always be faster ”
What is it going to take to beat Antoine this year why is he so good
TF – I see Antoine as a really strong person physically and mentally, so to beat him someone needs more than just strength. Antoine will always be a strong contender after all his years of experience. He knows how to deal with the pressure and he knows how to keep it cool while others will let the pressure overtake them. I have respect for such a personality, but no one is unbeatable and I really believe that a slalom podium is possible for a lighter person like myself. A title is welcome, but I take each opportunity with my heart and work hard for it. My head is ready for each big moment that might present itself. The future is bright and there could be surprises from the young Slalom riders. The new slalom generation will take over soon.
For any recreational and freestyle sailors out there wanting to try Slalom – sell it to us, why should they do it?
TF – Slalom is fun, full stop. If you can combine both Freestyle and Slalom at the same time you will enjoy windsurfing more, and you could even learn more things about windsurfing faster. You can only Freestyle for a certain amount of time, until it becomes a bit boring compared to the feeling/adrenaline of being on a Slalom board. It’s just amazing. Do not limit yourself; even though I am not a tall person, I took all the time I had to learn each discipline in windsurfing. In my garage at home I have Freestyle, Wave, Formula and Slalom boards because I enjoy every side of this sport. Maybe I’m not that good in Wave sailing but I can be competitive in all the rest. If I can do it all and have enough time to keep up with the rest of the world, I see no reason why you can’t. It’s always fun to go cruising and take your mind off Freestyle. It could help you to come back and be better in Freestyle or whichever discipline you are putting your time into. If I(as a freestyler) can be fast on a Slalom board and get great results, then I really believe you can do the same or even better than me!
Taty Frans is sponsored by Starboard, Gaastra GA sails, Mystic, LSD fins, Powerex, LiP sunglasses – www.facebook.com/TatyNB9