Trofeo Sofia Iberostar– Grael and Kunze are back to defend their title
by Trofeo Princesa Sofía on 3 Apr 2015
Martine Grael and Kahena Kunze - 46th Trofeo S.A.R. Princesa Sofía - Mallorca BernardiBibiloni/Sofia
Trofeo Sofia Iberostar – Current 49er FX World champions, Brazilians Martine Grael and Kahena Kunze, are back in Palma to defend their title and to add some valuable training to their Olympic preparation.
Whatever the objective in the regatta, Grael and Kunze just give it all. According to their coach Javier Torres, this will to win every race can prove to be their strong point as well as their weakness “they are putting pressure on themselves to be at the front”.
The Brazilian pair has a busy schedule this year and once the Sofia Iberostar regatta finished they will head to Hyeres and Weymouth for the ISAF Sailing World Cup, then Portugal, Canada, Rio and finally Argentina for the next World championship.
In total, more than 260 days racing are scheduled this year! “This is a very demanding program but the key for success is to plan well the year schedule with training, racing and resting time.”
After competing in several boats like the Cadet, 420 and 470, Mallorca Jabier Torres swapped to coaching. First with the Alonso brothers in the 49er, then through the Brazilian Olympic Committee as an international coach to help Brazilian sailors shine in Rio for the 2016 Olympic campaign.
And so far his two champions are on track! “If they keep training this way I think they can reach their goal in Rio. The Olympic site is tricky, there is lots of current the wind is unstable with many patterns, so it is important to understand the racing area. If they are well prepared they can medal, however in sailing nothing is predictable and everything can happen.” explains Torres.
About his own sailing career, Torres admits being tempted by ocean racing like the Volvo Ocean Race or kiteboarding. “This is fast and spectacular and a great way to attract the public to sailing.”
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