Progress in Eckernförde

During the last week of the summer break, the German 49er association organized a week of training for transit teams, who had changed from one 9er class to another during summer. We took grasp of this great opportunity and went there to find out we were the only 49er FX team participating. The other two teams had just begun sailing 29er and we could act as a great role model to them. Because we were only one FX, we were able to receive solo training during the whole week from Fede García, a coach from Valencia.

As soon as we arrived, we started rigging up the boat, while Fede explained different details of the boat to us that needed trimming or tuning. Before we went on the water for the first time, we got instructions on shore how to move correctly in the boat. This was very helpful, because it was all quite new to us and we could use these basics to practice on the water. During the first two days we had light winds and were able to practice only these steps and choreographies that we needed for maneuvers. We were able to progress very quickly, which allowed us to focus on starting and trimming as well.

The conditions during the week were ideal for beginners like us, because the wind started off weak and grew stronger including a swell towards the end of the week. This allowed us to learn the basics and apply them during different conditions. We were struggling at first with the maneuvers, but after watching several videos of the best athletes in the 49er skiff, we started to learn how to move on the boat. We made great progress over the days and had our first couple of capsizes. We are grateful for the support of the association, our parents and Fede without whom the week would not have been possible. Now we are looking forward to training a while in Berlin, while getting back into school and preparing for the German championship at the end of September.