The 41-year-old Spaniard has continued his impressive run of success on Tenerife. With an outstanding second place at the El Médano Windsurf Grand Slam, the Spanish windsurfing pro has been on the podium at every event on the Canary Island since 2012. He has even won the event three times (2015, 2016 and 2018). This exceptional consistency makes him one of the most successful athletes at this spot. Following his latest podium finish, Fernandez gave us an insight into the reasons for his continued success, the longevity of his career and his plans for the coming season.
Victor Fernandez has been on the podium in Tenerife every year since 2012.
Interview: Chris Yates
Hey Victor, congratulations on another podium finish on Tenerife, which means you've been on the podium at every event on Tenerife since 2012 - what is it about Tenerife that you think helps you to have such an incredible run?
Thank you so much, I'm so happy to be back on the podium in Tenerife. I feel very comfortable in these conditions in Cabezo. I've been coming to Tenerife since I was 15 years old. We used to have a national wave event in Cabezo, so I think the time I've put into training at this spot and working on my equipment has helped me to get good results. I also really enjoy pushing the big equipment to the limit in difficult light wind conditions, it's a challenge but it pushes me to keep improving.
That's not only an amazing achievement, but also a long life. If someone had told you over 20 years ago that you would still be at the top of the sport, would you have believed them? And is there anything in terms of training/lifestyle that you think has enabled you to be so successful over such a long period of time?
You're right, I never thought I could achieve such a long career, but I feel healthy, I'm experienced and I love windsurfing more than ever, so I'm enjoying every bit of it. Of course, I don't spend as much time on the water as I did in my prime, but that doesn't bother me. I still try to lead a healthy lifestyle and train out of the water, which allows me to stay in good shape when it comes to competitions.
What equipment were you travelling with on Tenerife?
I rode my new Grip 3 98l board in all heats and 5.3, except in the final where I used my 5.0, but still on my 98l. I feel very confident on my new equipment, especially on the big boards and sails, as I spent a lot of time in Cape Verde and Almerimar last winter.
I feel healthy, am experienced and love windsurfing more than ever.
Which stop has been your favourite so far this season and why?
I have participated in three events (only the 5-star events), and if I had to choose one, it would be Chile. I've also spent a lot of time there in the past and I love riding waves. Chile has a lot of good wave spots and there are always waves and great vibes out of the water.
Sylt is another spot where you have a great track record - what are you going to do in the time until then as a break and to prepare for the next stop?
I'll be working at my centre in Almerimar and training on the good wave days we get, we have a few spots at home where I can train for Sylt. I'm going to go to Switzerland to see my son and my girlfriend and then I'm going to Sylt at the end of September.
Do you think your approach to competitions has changed over the years - and if so, what and why?
I now approach the competitions with more experience, I just want to have fun, I've won more in my career than I thought I would and I'm very grateful for that.
