Rider Portrait: Florian

Introduction

Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a little about your background?
Spanish by birth, with Swiss/German heritage, born & raised on a small island. Water sports is my life, originally coming from sailing, started as an Optimist and now have more than 10k nautical miles on the ocean and 2 Atlantic crossings under my belt. Passionate Stand Up Paddler, downwind is where I live and what I love. These days I run a small watersports center in Zurich, here to make people happy.

How did you first get introduced to pumpfoiling?
You did.. Patrick told me everything I know and took me pump foiling for the first time.


Journey into Pumpfoiling

What attracted you to pumpfoiling in the first place?
Camaraderie

Can you describe your first experience with pumpfoiling?
Disappointing, frustrating, but here we are, still on it.

How long did it take you to become proficient?
pfff… 600 starts? +/-


Challenges

What was the biggest challenge you faced when learning to pumpfoil?
Patience

Have you ever had any accidents or close calls?
My foil regularly wants to cut my head off, but thanks to my helmet, it’s still an ongoing love/hate relationship.

What advice would you give to beginners?
Buy yourself a bike 😉


Passion and Motivation

What keeps you going in the sport?
People

Do you have any specific goals or milestones you’re aiming for?
My goal is Downwind foiling, but there is still a very long road ahead

Cross-Training and Other Interests

Are you involved in any other water sports or activities?
SUP, Wing Foil, Sailing, Surfski etc..

How do other sports or activities complement your pumpfoiling?
Paddling keeps me fit


Gear and Equipment

Can you talk about your gear? What do you recommend for beginners?
I haven’t figured it out myself, Gear is the one big challenge, find something you feel comfortable with.

How important is the role of technology in pumpfoiling?
I hope it isn’t


Community and Lifestyle

How has pumpfoiling impacted your lifestyle?
More social

Are you part of a community or group that shares your passion?
I think I am


Closing

What’s next for you in the world of pumpfoiling?
Growth I hope

Any shoutouts or people you’d like to thank?
To Sorin & Patrick, thanks mates, for starting me with this, for sharing the dock and the gear with me, and for being amazing buddies.


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