Giovanni Soldini, an Italian sailor and skipper, is no stranger to the world of high-performance sailing. Renowned for his achievements and records, Soldini has an impressive sailing career that spans over decades. One of his significant accomplishments includes being the skipper of Maserati Multi 70, a world-class racing trimaran. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Soldini’s experiences, his passion for sailing, and his views on the future of this thrilling sport.
Question: Giovanni, you have achieved incredible success in the sailing world. Could you briefly share your journey with us?
Soldini: Thank you for having me. My journey in sailing began when I was just a child. My father was a sailor, and he passed on his love for the sea to me. I started sailing dinghies and gradually moved to bigger boats. Over the years, I have participated in numerous races, including the renowned Vendée Globe and the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, where I captured several victories. However, my true passion lies in multihull racing, which led me to become the skipper of Maserati Multi 70.
Question: What makes Maserati Multi 70 so special?
Soldini: Maserati Multi 70 stands out for its speed, agility, and technological advancements. It is a 70-foot trimaran that is equipped with cutting-edge hydrofoils – appendages that lift the hull out of the water, reducing drag and increasing speed. This innovative design allows us to push the boundaries of speed and performance in races around the world.
Question: You have set several records with Maserati Multi 70. Could you tell us more about these achievements?
Soldini: One of the most memorable records was in 2018 when we set the fastest time for a multihull yacht on the Hong Kong to London Tea Route. We crossed the finish line in just 36 days, 2 hours, 37 minutes, and 2 seconds, beating the previous record by an impressive 4 days. This record involved navigating through challenging conditions, including the treacherous Indian Ocean. It was an extraordinary experience.
Question: How do you prepare yourself and the team for such demanding and high-pressure races?
Soldini: Preparation is key. We spend countless hours training on the boat, refining our techniques, and familiarizing ourselves with the latest technologies. We also analyze weather patterns and study the race courses to devise optimal strategies. Mental and physical fitness are crucial too. Sailing these high-performance boats require strength, agility, and quick decision-making abilities.
Question: The future of sailing looks promising with technological advancements. What trends do you see shaping the sport in the years to come?
Soldini: Technology continues to be a game-changer in sailing. We are already witnessing the integration of artificial intelligence and data analytics to enhance race performance. Additionally, sustainability is becoming a major focus for sailing events. There is a growing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints and utilizing renewable energy sources. I believe these trends will shape the future of sailing, making it greener, faster, and more accessible.
Question: Any final thoughts or advice for aspiring sailors?
Soldini: My advice is simple – follow your passion. Sailing is a beautiful and challenging sport that rewards dedication and perseverance. Start small, learn the basics, and never stop pushing yourself. Surround yourself with experienced sailors who can guide and inspire you. The sea is vast, and the possibilities in sailing are endless. Chase your dreams, and they might just become reality.
As the interview with Giovanni Soldini, skipper of Maserati Multi 70, draws to a close, one cannot help but be inspired by his relentless pursuit of excellence, his unwavering passion for sailing, and his adventurous spirit. Soldini continues to push boundaries, set records, and pave the way for the future of this exhilarating sport.