"Never Give Up" - Motivational words from Hannah Bristow
Posted by jennie on 9th Mar 2018
Angela Pumariega and Hannah Bristow are two of the most exciting female atheletes in international sailing. We spoke to both of them about their goals, and how they manage their love of sailing with 'normal' life.
Here's what Hannah had to say:
How does it make you feel when you’re out on the water?
The adrenaline of the speed and the racing is unbeatable. I love the feeling of working and improving, and the buzz you get when you finally manage to get something you’ve been working so hard on.
What's your greatest achievement?
At a junior level my greatest achievement was winning the RS Feva World Championships. At a youth level it was qualifying to represent the British Youth Sailing Team in the 29er at the ISAF Youth Worlds in New Zealand was such an honour.
What's your long-term goal?
My aim is to medal at the 2024 Olympics in the 49erFX with my crew, Emily Covell.
Who's your biggest inspiration?
My parents have always been my biggest inspiration. My dad for his coaching and advice. My mum for her emotional, logistical and motivational guidance. And both of them for their constant support in every crazy thing I decide I want to do.
How do you manage your time sailing alongside other commitments?
Lots of colour coded year-long wall calendars! I just try to really efficiently manage my time between sailing, fitness, university, work and social so that I can manage all of them effectively.
Do you think sailing is a male dominant sport? If yes, why?
I think it has been in the past and still is to a large extent. However, I think that it is increasingly more equal due to a big push on getting girls involved in, and keeping them in, the sport.
Do you think there's enough female specific product in the sport?
Again, I think that in the past there was some lack of it. But more recently the ranges of female specific kit in the sport has massively increased in range and quality and now is so well designed for females; my Gill Skiff suit is completely fitted for a female, as are the under thermal layers and the waterproof top layers.
What would be the best advice you'd give to a young/new female sailor?
Never give up. It’s still the best advice I’ve ever been given.