SAN DIEGO – Martine Grael, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, is set to make history as the first woman to helm an F50 foiling catamaran in SailGP. This groundbreaking moment will come when a new Brazilian team debuts in the fifth season of Larry Ellison’s global sailing league.
Grael’s introduction happened during a news conference in Rio de Janeiro, where a regatta is scheduled to take place on May 3-4 on Guanabara Bay, with the iconic backdrop of Sugarloaf Mountain.
Expressing her thoughts, Grael said in a video interview with The Associated Press, “I’m going to be representing every girl out there. There are a few girls that could be in this position. So, I’m very honored to be the first one. It’s going to be a great challenge for me, not just as a girl, but as a sports person.”
SailGP, founded in 2019 by Ellison and Russell Coutts, features some of the world’s best sailors, including America’s Cup champions and Olympic medalists. Season 5 will witness 11 teams competing in 14 regattas.
Grael hails from a family deeply rooted in sailing, with her father Torben being a decorated sailor with multiple Olympic medals and other prestigious sailing achievements. She herself clinched gold alongside Kahena Kunze in the 49erFX category in the 2016 and 2020 Olympics, showcasing her prowess on the water.
Transitioning from the 49erFX to the F50 catamaran presents a new challenge for Grael, and she is excited about the journey ahead. SailGP started a Women’s Pathway Program in 2021, ensuring female representation in every race.
Coutts, speaking of Grael’s selection, stated, “She’s a standout candidate. She’s got two gold medals. She’s proven that she can perform under pressure. If the Brazilian team puts the right crew around Grael, I don’t see any reason why they can’t do really well.”
With SailGP’s new season set to kick off soon, all eyes will be on Grael and her team as they embark on this historic journey in the world of competitive sailing.
Author: Bernie Wilson
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