Since beginning paragliding on the age of eight, Norwegian Bjornar Erikstad has been fascinated by the game. Greater than three a long time later, he has change into probably the most distinguished and skilled sailors.
The 41-year-old veteran of the game has received a number of medals on the World Cup circuit and different worldwide competitions, competed in 4 Paralympic Video games and was the standard-bearer of Norway at Rio 2016.
Erikstad, who has TAR syndrome, describes himself as being born with out arms and with fingers mounted on his shoulders. He has sailed on the two.4m R keelboat since he was launched to him when he was 15.
Rising up on an island in Norway, Erikstad credit his upbringing as one of many causes for his success.
“My dad used to say that everybody has to sail and my dad and mom have at all times had that mindset that if you have not tried it, you possibly can’t say you possibly can’t,” he stated in an interview in 2014.
“I needed to attempt it and, after a little bit of problem, I discovered it actually enjoyable and began crusing increasingly more alone.”
Right here the skilled athlete gives recommendations on easy methods to begin the game he has been training for greater than three a long time.
1. Discover a native yacht membership
My first tip will likely be to discover a native yacht membership closest to you and ask them, “Do you will have any crusing actions?” They usually say “sure”.
2. Discover a boat that fits you
There are numerous boats and possibly there are some boats that suit you worse or higher than others. So that you ask round and ask, “Which boat fits me?”
3. Take your time
Navigating is usually a bit complicated, so begin with the straightforward stuff. Begin crusing with the wind from behind and revel in it. So you possibly can deepen your expertise.
4. Have enjoyable
Sport is at all times enjoyable. No matter you get, at all times do it with a smile.
5. Attempt to evolve all through your profession
Browsing, you are able to do it for all times. I began at eight and I hope to have the ability to proceed to a really excessive age. You’ll be able to browse for a lifetime, so take child steps and revel in searching.