ANDREA FERIN
We never expected these winds for sure. Last year we did not even complete a race! We had big waves and strong wind and we were all on our small equipment. I found it was best to sail clean and keep out of trouble at the marks. Just staying up and not falling down was the key. On my best race I was using my medium board and 7.0m when I scored a second. Later in the day I went to my small board and 7.0m. 6.3m would have been better in some heats but I had no time to change. The wind was strong but gusty, so it was really hard to choose the right size sail. I used a 32 cm fin on the small board and 36 on the medium board. It was amazing to score a second. I know I have the talent but I am always nervous when I race. I am trying to stay calmer when I race this season. I felt I was fast so just tried to take a clean start and use my speed. Now I feel I can challenge in every condition as long as I choose the all-important correct equipment.