14 Questions to … Alexandre Paradeda

Xandi Paradeda, aka Careca, 2001 Snipe World Champion and Olympian (470)

– 1) Your first time on a sailing boat?

My first time on a sailing boat was when I was 5 with my father.

– 2) Your first time on a Snipe?

On 1st of January 86, when I was 13.

– 3) The most bizarre thing that happened in a regatta?

I had an attack of diarrhea on the waters of the Bahamas and we were the first on the downwind leg, I leaned over the edge and I unloaded it.

– 4) What is the thing that most angers you in a race/regatta?

When I make serious mistakes from lack of concentration.

 

– 5) Which is the race/regatta that you remember with the most pleasure?

The race that I will never forget was the last race at the World Championship in Sweden in 2003. At the first weather mark we were in 30th place and we managed to finish it winning. The regatta that gives me the most satisfaction is the Pan-American Games in 2007 where I was in Rio de Janeiro with my family around me and I won.

– 6) And the race/regatta you would like to forget?

No race is to be discarded, on each beat and each mistake I have learned something that has brought me more experience.

– 7) Your “dream in the peak”? (Your sailing dream?)

I consider myself realized and I do not have other dreams.

– 8) Sailing goals for 2013, and beyond?

For 2013 I want to continue to sail at a high-level on a Snipe with my friends.

– 9) The most important people for you in sailing and in the Snipe?

In the sailing world the most important person for me was Torben Grael because he was for me a great example. In the Snipe my main rivals have always challenged me to improve to overtake them: Jorge Nehm, Ricardo Paradeda, Andre Fonseca and now Bruno Bethlem who from my point of view is the best athlete in the Snipe.

– 10) Why the Snipe?

Because it is a very strong class in Brazil, with high-level championships and many boats that include many of my friends.

– 11) Your perfect sailing venue and your perfect sailing conditions?

The conditions that I prefer are reaches and runs in strong winds.

– 12) Besides sailing which other sports do you practice?

Being the father of two beautiful girls.

– 13) Are you superstitious?

Yes

– 14) Your perfect holiday?

Cruising in Croatia with family and friends.