Inigo MADINA
Surfer

Inigo received a grant to help him enter international surfing competitions.

What is your sporting background ?
I have been training at the Hbsc for 7 years and at the Pôle France for 2 years (training and improvement sessions in the world: Portugal, Andalusia, Canary Islands, Indonesia, South Africa, Tahiti, Hawaii, El Salvador...)
- winner of the Gromsearch tour in 2018
- winner MATTAGAMEONE (European competition in -14 years) in Portugal in 2019
- New Aquitaine champion in 2020 (no French championships due to the pandemic)
- vice champion of France cadet in 2021 (outclassed)
- vice world champion junior in -16 years in 2022

What is your view on your profession today ?
My sports career allowed me to reach, at the age of 15, the status of high-level sportsman. I gradually overcame the challenges that were presented to me. I discovered competition at a young age and the strong values of a sports team. My taste for competition allows me to surpass myself every day, in my physical training and in the water (which are fundamental), and I feel great pleasure in always going further. I enjoy it, despite the effort and commitment it requires. I am really at 200%, but not without the support of my coaches and my family. Their presence is essential, and I thank them sincerely. Pro status is a goal for me to reach!

How do you see yourself in 5 years ? In 10 years ?
In 5 years, my ambition is the QS circuit and, why not, the pro circuit! And I will work relentlessly to reach my goals. And if I were to think today about my project in 10 years, my dream would be to participate in the Olympics. This is what keeps me motivated and keeps me rigorous and determined every day!

Interview conducted in 2022
Photography credit: Julie Glassberg