Ulsan PWA World Cup

Antoine Albeau and Sarah-Quita Offringa prepare to begin their title defences

In just 3 days time the 2016 PWA Slalom World Tour will begin as the world’s fastest sailors return to Jinha Beach, South Korea, for the opening battle of the season — which runs between the 19th-24th May. 

Antoine Albeau (RRD / NeilPryde) and Sarah-Quita Offringa (Starboard / NeilPryde / Maui Ultra Fins) come into the event as the reigning world champions and as a result they will be the two sailors that everyone else is looking to beat in the men’s and women’s divisions respectively. Just before the green flag is raised and racing commences we quickly caught up with them to see how they are feeling before the start of the season:

Antoine Albeau: “I’m happy to arrive in Korea. I had knee injury this winter and I couldn't really prepare like I would’ve wanted, but I am confident on my gear. Hopefully we can get better condition than last year. The battle will start soon! See you on the water A2.”

Sarah-Quita Offringa: “Apart from a couple of trips this year I spent most of my time back home in Aruba. I felt like I needed a break from travelling and searching for the windiest places. Sometimes it’s good to stay put. And I’m lucky enough to come from a place where it’s windy most of the time anyway.

I have had more time on my slalom gear compared to last year. But I have been getting my butt kicked by the local boys! That helped me to get in gear and get my equipment tuned. As Korea approaches I haven’t been able to measure my speed with the other girls, I’ve changed my sailing style a bit, but most importantly I feel comfortable on my gear so I think that’s a good sign!

I’m still quite relaxed, but I’m sure I’ll switch to competition mode once I arrive at Jinha beach and see everyone again. It’s a new year, so let’s see who’s taking the top spot home this season.”

Make sure you tune into www.pwaworldtour.com from the 19th-24th May to see all of the scintillating action live via the PWA live stream and live ticker. Also check back tomorrow when the full event preview will be online.