When did you start windsurfing?

I started windsurfing when I was nine years old with my brother. My Mum wanted us to do watersports since we lived on an island so she suggested for us to go windsurfing.

What are the conditions like on Aruba ?

It has (Aruba) offshore winds & flat water – a bit gusty but strong. There are no waves unless the tropical storms pass then we do get some.

When was your first competition?

I started windsurfing in the summer of 2001, and then that October there was a competition in Bonaire and I entered that so only a few months between starting to sail and competing.

So what moves did you learn first?

I started, like everyone, with heli tacks and other similar freestyle tricks but my first jumping move was the vulcan, I landed that first. Then after that I wanted to keep up with my brother as he could spock already so I learnt spocks, wily skippers and then grubbies, switch stance moves and so on.

Tell us about the PWA Canaries competitions in 2006.

In Pozo, everyone was telling me that I was lucky not to experience the really nuclear winds but it was pretty hard actually! I was sailing on 3.7m really overpowered but it was fun sailing in such different conditions.
In Fuerteventura, after I came from Pozo, I was more determined to win the competition and it kinda happened! (And what did it feel like to beat the current freestyle world champion Daida Moreno?)

I was ecstatic, super happy, just couldn’t believe it at first.

What has been your favourite location on the PWA Tour so far.

Fuerteventura. I liked the water; it was blue and beautiful and nice to sail over. I didn’t like the chop on the outside but we had waves coming in on the days before the competition and that was fun for jumping & riding – I liked it a lot.

Which PWA riders inspire you in freestyle & waves?

For me, the Bonaire guys; Tonky, Taty & Kiri and also the Venezuelan guys; Cheo & Gollito. In waves I like Daida Moreno’s style and the men…I don’t really know….Robby Naish is good and Jason Polakow also (Ahh…bless!)

You’re still at school, yet you’re here in Sylt at the PWA event. Is your Mum with you as usual?

I am 15 years old and I will finish school in about three years and after that I have no idea! My Dad came with me (to Sylt) this year as my Mum was tired of all the flying. I like having them with me as they can drive me to places, but they are also good company.

So this winter are you going to try wave sailing?

I am still in school so I can’t travel too much and this year I’ve been to a lot of places already. Wave sailing…ummm…sounds good but there aren’t that many waves in Aruba . I really want to try it though.

Why do you think you are so good at freestyle?

In Aruba, when I sail, I mostly ‘compete’ against the boys and I always want to catch up with the boys, particularly my brother who is just in front of me in freestyle. I think that is why. He competed in Fuerte (in 2006) and didn’t do too good but give it one year, and I think he will do good. (Watch this space….)

Finally, what are you going to be when you grown up?

I actually have not a clue. (Professional windsurfer?) No, I don’t think so. I want to become something and I think it will have something to do with windsurfing as that is a part of me now but we will have to see. I have three years to think!