Finian Maynard Signs New Deal With RRD Boards

The PWA catches up with Finian Maynard to talk about his latest move to Italian board manufacturer RRD.

Why did you decide to leave F2 for Roberto Ricci Designs?

I have known Roberto for many years. I was sponsored by RRD in 1996 on my second full year on the PWA tour, and I had some very good results on his boards, like my first podium finish in the Paros World Cup. The time seemed right to join the RRD team again as they were looking for a top slalom rider and I became available in April when F2 became insolvent. I had a great relationship with the F2 guys, and still do, but the time to move on was right for my family and I. I wish them the best with the future of F2.
 
Why did you choose RRD and not another brand like JP Australia or Fanatic?

The RRD boards fit my style. I have been rigorously testing them in Gran Canaria in different wind strengths before I made my decision to join, and I am confident that they can help me to achieve my goals this year. I also want to work closely again with Roberto and his team, as they are based in Tuscany and I spend a lot of time in Europe, so logistically it made sense for testing and developing for the future.

Did you have the chance to test X-Fire and which one will you choose for Gran Canaria Slalom event?

I have decided on the 90 and 115 X-Fire boards for Gran Canaria. They were the best sizes that I tested, and they are also the sizes that I will need the most in the Canaries.

Do you think it’s dangerous to change sponsors and equipment in the middle of the season?

Sure there is a risk involved, but I put the hours in on the water testing before I decided to join RRD, so this is a very educated decision for me. At the end of the day, I still need to start well, gybe well and race tactically well, no matter what boards I ride. If I can do these things, then I think I can perform at a good level with the X- Fires.

You had a very good result in the Costa Brava, what are your objectives in the Slalom discipline this season?

My objective is to win.

Regarding speed, what are your plans for next winter? Do you think we have a good chance to see a new edition of the Masters of Speed event?

The Masters of Speed generally gets decided in August, so news about the event will be made public at that time. For the moment, I have many things to think about with the 2 big slalom races in GC and Fuerte, and the Speed World Championships are also in Fuerte. It will be an exciting month!

Finian Maynard is sponsored by: RRD, NeilPryde, BVI Tourism, Deboichet Fins and Performance Supplements. He's currently ranked second in the 2008 Gran Canaria Grand Slam, and second overall in the seasons rankings, we wish him the best of luck with his new sponsor and the 2008 season.