WANG Jue-We don't know each other well enough yet

by China Team on 17 May 2006 Although CHN79 is reducing little by little the difference which separates them and their better prepared competition, it remains logically defending the back of the fleet. Today, CHINA TEAM weren’t successful in their bid to defeat the French and South African teams on the last races of Act 10. On board CHN79, WANG Jue is one of five grinders on the team. It has been a little bit of a crazy week for him.

WANG Jue was recruited after selection trials, held in Shenzhen and Hong Kong in March. Just like the other Asian sailors on board the red dragon, he is participating in his first America’s Cup. Thrown into the deep end only 10 days ago, he has put his impressive physique on the winch of CHN79. It’s a first for him who before ten days ago has never touched a winch pedestal.

For this previous rugby player converted to sailboat racing, the pleasure is evident, which is obvious from the smile on his face all day long. Along with the pleasure is a little disappointment too, but there is always the desire to improve and push the dragon faster.

What to you think of the boat speed today?
There are many reasons why we didn’t have enough speed. During the spinnaker drops for example, we took more time than the others and I needed to give a hand on the foredeck. We don’t know each other enough yet, it’s normal and during all of our maneuvers, we can gain precious seconds. But we need to spend more time on the water together. We don’t expect a miracle right away. Me myself, I’m not up to my potential yet.

What do you think of a grinders role?
It is not easy! I am starting to understand better but to be honest I am just a novice in this position. I come from Lasers where I am alone on the boat and with only one sail. We spend a lot of time with Thierry Barot and Aziz Essadek, to better learn the technical side of the position. They are very fast with their feet to change the winch connections with their feet; it is hallucinating to watch their feet at times. During emergencies, I am still finding it hard to handle the stress. I have to listen, look at them to understand which of course means losing a little time. Being a grinder is physical, but it’s not just that. It means taking the time to understand the winch system, the different speeds, the timing, the connections, etc.

How do you see the next races?
I have a great desire to continue. the Cup is great, 100 times better than a Laser. The sensations on board the boat are incredible and the boats impressive. I love their power, even if it hurts sometimes. I hurt myself a little on the elbow today, and had to give up my place for the second regatta. Yesterday, I got hit in the thigh by a spinning winch handle. I am learning and I love being here. We are going a little faster each day, which is the only important thing.