As part of our coverage of the SSL Gold Cup journey, we’re catching up with sailors from around the world to hear their stories, experiences, and hopes for the future. Today, we’re speaking with John Birkett, one of the athletes representing SSL Team Ecuador – a nation where sailing is growing and the passion for the sport runs deep.
SSL: What is the sailing scene like in Ecuador? Are there many young sailors or local regattas?
JB: In Ecuador, the sailing scene isn’t very large, but the level is quite high in each of the classes we sail. The biggest fleets are Lightning, Sunfish, Optimist, and Offshore Racing.
SSL: How did you get into sailing? Was it through your family, a sailing school, or maybe by coincidence?
JB: It was through my family. My dad taught me how to sail when I was around six years old on a Laser. But I didn’t really get into it until I was nine, when I started sailing Optimists – and from then on, I was hooked.
SSL: What made you want to join the SSL project?
JB: From the moment I heard about SSL, it caught my attention. I think it’s the perfect opportunity to prove to the world – and to ourselves – that Ecuador has great sailors who can achieve strong results in any class.
SSL: What does being part of SSL Team Ecuador mean to you? Is it more about representing your country, competing at a higher level, or both?
JB: Definitely both. I’m a very competitive person, so whatever I do, I try to do it at the highest level. And if that means representing Ecuador – even better. I don’t think there’s a better feeling than getting great results and putting your country’s name among the best.
SSL: How is the atmosphere within the team? Do you already know your teammates from other events or clubs?
JB: The atmosphere is great – we all get along well and see each other pretty often. The sailing scene in Ecuador isn’t that big, so some of us even sail together in other classes.
SSL: What has been the biggest challenge so far in the SSL journey – technically, mentally, or logistically?
JB: I think it’s a bit of everything. This is something new for all of us and it involves a lot of preparation, training, and logistics. But that’s also what makes it so worthwhile and rewarding.
SSL: What do you think the SSL Gold Cup can bring to the future of sailing in Ecuador?
JB: I think it gives sailors – especially the younger ones – something to look up to. If they see a team from Ecuador going to an event of this magnitude and competing against the world’s best, they’ll know that with hard work, they can do the same.
SSL: And finally – what are your personal goals as a sailor? Where do you see yourself in the next few years, both in SSL and beyond?
JB: I’ll still be in Salinas, sailing every chance I get – just like I’ve always done. I hope I’ll continue to have the same hunger for winning regattas and be considered among the top sailors in the scene.
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Photo by: Martina Orsini