MARK OF A CHAMPION

‘Mark of a champion’ is a new series we’re running with some of windsurfing’s brightest stars, to find out the traits they think have helped them reach the top. And who better to kick offthe series with than Sarah-Quita Offringa. Born in Aruba, the exceptionally talented sailor has an amazing 17 world titles and no doubt many more to come. She gives us an insight into her world.

- John Carter

BEING THE BEST

I think I only have this feeling of ‘being the best’ with windsurfing as I seem to have a natural talent at it. If I see that someone else, and usually another woman, can do something better than I can, something just switches in my mind and makes me want to do that too. Wait... who am I kidding? I think I feel like this in anything I do!

I guess I’m competitive. But I am realistic about it. In other sports I do, I know it’s not realistic to be the best, but then I will try hard to be the best that I can be. Being good at something or having proper dominion over something just gives me a certain satisfaction that is a bit addicting. When it comes to windsurfing that means I’m just having more fun on the water the better I am. So the better I get, the more adrenaline rush I get, and the more I want to get better. So being the best is cool, but I think the satisfaction comes more from being as good as I can be and having fun with that.

HOW TO ACHIEVE YOUR BEST