Performance x Longevity

Victor Fernandez (Duotone Windsurfing) boasts arguably the best overall record in Tenerife having at least made the podium every year since there has been an event there since 2012 - while also winning the event on three occasions (2015, 2016 & 2018). After extending that record earlier this month with an excellent second place at the Playa Surf CBbC Hotel Tenerife El Médano Windsurf Grand Slam, we caught up with Victor for an interview.

Hey Victor, congratulations on another podium in Tenerife, which means you’ve podiumed at every event in Tenerife since 2012 - what is it about Tenerife that you think helps you to go on such an incredible run?

“Thanks a lot, I am so happy to get another podium in Tenerife. I feel very comfortable riding in those conditions at Cabezo. I am coming to Tenerife since I was 15 years old, we used to have a Spanish Wave event at Cabezo so I guess the time I put into the spot and working on my gear for that spot helped me to reach good results. I also really enjoy putting the big gear to the limit in tough light wind conditions, it is challenging, but makes me want to improve more.”

It’s not only an amazing display of skill, but also longevity, if someone would have said to you 20+ years ago you would still be competing at the very top of the sport would you have believed them? And is there anything you think you do in terms of training/lifestyle that has allowed you to be so successful for such a long time?

“You are right, I never thought I would be able to achieve such a long career, but I feel healthy, experienced, and I love windsurfing more than ever, so I enjoy every bit of it. I am of course not putting the same time in on the water as when I was at my best moment, but I am fine with it. I still try to have a healthy lifestyle and train out of the water, which allows me to stay in good form when it comes to competitions.”

What equipment were you riding in Tenerife?

“I was riding my new Grip 3  98l board in all my heats and 5.3, except in the final when I used my 5.0 but still on my 98l. I feel very confident on my new gear, especially on the big boards and sails as I put a lot of time in the past winter in Cape Verde and Almerimar.”

From the season thus far, which stop has been your favourite and why?

“I competed in 3 events (only the 5-star events), and if I had to choose one it would be Chile. I also spent a lot of time there in the past and I love wave riding. Chile has many good wave spots and there is always some surf going out and great vibes out of the water as well.”

Sylt is another spot where you have a great track record - what will you be doing between now and then as a break and to prepare for the next stop?

“I will be in Almerimar working at my centre and also training the good wave days we get, we have a few spots at home where I can train for Sylt. I will go to Switzerland to see my son and my girlfriend and then off to Sylt at the end of September.” 

Over the years do you think your approach to competing has changed at all - and if so - what and why?

“I approach competitions now with experience, I just want to have fun, I have won more in my career than I thought I would and I feel very grateful for it.” 

Thanks, Victor, and congratulations again on your latest result.