Stalled doubles, sky-high push-loop forwards and a whole host of wave manoeuvres – the young Canary Islands local, Marino Gil Gherardi, has long since cemented his place amongst the wave surfing elite. Even so, there are a few things that, if he could, he’d steal from his friends and rivals on the World Cup Tour.
Marino, if you could steal three things from other riders, what would they be?
I would like to receive from Marc Paré Steal his knowledge of windsurfing kit! He knows an absolute load about boards and sails. I’ve known him for a few years now and he’s a good friend of mine. He’s very keen on getting his kit as perfect as possible, tuning everything to the nitty-gritty, and he takes care of all sorts of details in the process.
What makes him so strong in this respect? Is it his sensitivity to the equipment and the trim?
Exactly! I think I’ve got a good feel for it in general, but of course he has a few more years’ experience with countless boards and sails and their development.
What else would you like?
Marcilio Browne’s style! He’s a really stylish rider and I love the way he surfs the wave, riding that line, especially at his home spot in Hookipa! His style is incredible. The way he surfs in Hookipa looks as if he’s from another planet.
You’re praising one of your fiercest rivals here...
I know, but I respect other riders who are more skilled than I am. And Braw has a special, unique style.
And you’ve still got one ‘steal’ left.
Victor Fernandez’s consistency in competitions! Victor has been in the world’s top three for many, many years, which is simply incredible. I’d love to choose him as a guide or coach. The focus he brings to his windsurfing and the World Cups is unrivalled. He’s the perfect competition surfer and, even after all these years, he’s still hard to beat – whatever the conditions.
