Fabi, how important is the World Cup Sylt to you in your annual schedule?
For me, Sylt is the highlight of the season. It remains the biggest and most prestigious World Cup of the year and has the widest media coverage. As our World Tour this year consists only of Sylt and the World Cup in Japan, I have prepared specifically and intensively for these two events.
What makes this event so special for you?
Sylt is something quite special simply because of its history and its size, but above all because, for me, it’s practically a home World Cup. I’m often on Sylt for the German Championships, but the World Cup is something unique every time: the spectators cheer the riders on come what may, and all the stars of our scene are there.
Does Sylt have the toughest foiling conditions on the tour? If so, why?
Sylt is definitely a very challenging sailing area. Especially when there’s a westerly wind, it really puts you to the test the big shorebreak Life is often tough. On top of that, on Sylt you never know exactly what to expect, and that certainly makes things tricky. Basically, though, I’m feeling confident: I’ve already competed in two events this year before Sylt and feel well prepared.
What goal have you set yourself for Sylt, and what conditions would be best for you to achieve it?
I feel very well prepared, whatever the conditions may be. I’ve been performing well all season and managed to step it up a notch during pre-season training. I’m ready, and my kit is top-notch. I’m coming to Sylt to compete right at the front of the field!
What’s your gear selection for Sylt? How many boards, sails and foils do you have with you?
For the two World Cups on Sylt and in Japan, we’re allowed to enter one board, three sails and one foil with two front wings and fuselages. The challenge here is that we have to decide now which three sails we’ll be using in Japan at the end of October. I haven’t quite made up my mind yet, but I’ll probably register my Severne Hyper in sizes 8.0, 7.0 and 6.0, along with my Starboard X-15 in 85, and for the foil, the front wings in 550 and 450. That should see me well equipped.
