Top GBR Laser sailor Nick Thompson talks about his Olympic aims
by Justin Chisholm on 14 Apr 2009
Nick Thompson, Laser Richard Langdon /Ocean Images
http://www.oceanimages.co.uk
Twenty two year old British Laser sailor Nick Thompson was understudy to Gold Medal winner Paul Goodison at the last Olympics in China.
On the new ISAF World Cup circuit Thompson has secured back to back World Cup victories by claiming gold in the Laser class in Palma, to add to his gold from leg two of the World Cup series in Miami. Thompson's sights are now firmly set on representing Britain at the next games in 2012. After his success in Palma, Justin Chisholm of Offshorerules spoke with Thompson;
JC: You will be back in the UK this month for the Laser Q event in Lowestoft. How will you be preparing for that event and what are your expectations?
NT: The Laser National Qualifiers are about qualification for the World and European Championships, this year to be held in Canada and Sweden. For me these events are only about placing high enough to gain selection, and therefore my preparation is not too important.
JC: You are a major contender for an UK Olympic place in 2012 in Weymouth. Do you feel any pressure from that?
NT: Olympic selection is not at the forefront of my focus at the moment, so therefore the pressure is not high at all; however as time flies past I'm sure this will change.
JC: What is your relationship like with Paul Goodison?
NT: Currently Paul is the Olympic Champion, so he is in effect the bar that I have to beat, that said the game only gets harder and to win Gold four years from now will take an even higher performance; one which I aim to reach.
JC: Tell us about your relationship with your coach Chris Gowers? What does he bring to your campaign?
NT: Chris Gowers is a very experienced and very talented coach. His ability to relate to my sailing and spot subtle differences is impeccable, this gives me the confidence to back my own decisions, whilst helping me to keep my cool and have fun.
JC: What ‘non-Laser’ sailing are you doing/planning to do this year?
NT: I currently have no other sailing planned, my Olympic campaign takes up the majority of my time; however I am very keen to get a little more involved in the yacht scene so if any one is interested please get in touch.
Full Offshorerules interview is
posted here
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