Photos: TGAS On Target
Malibu team skier Thomas Degasperi shares his thoughts about the 2011 competitive season.
WATERSKI: The Malibu Open (August 5-6, Milwaukee, WI) will draw one of the biggest crowds this year to watch a pro event. What are your pre-event rituals that help you relax and focus in front of large crowds? TGAS: Staying calm in a pro event is the key to being successful. Knowing your potential is also really important. If I start to look at the people on the banks, or listen to the announcers, or take an interest in how other skiers are performing, then my concentration level decreases. A strong mind and body equals maximum performance.
How are you preparing for the unpredictable conditions at the World championships? In my head I already know the conditions of the Volga River. I’ve skied there three times in different World Cup events (2nd place, 4th place, and 6th place). The conditions can change quickly, and it’s like a lottery if you get good water. I will be skiing the way I have always been, trying to be aggressive and smart at the same time. You never know what can happen at that site. It will be interesting to see who will come out on top.
What Zero Off setting do you use behind your Malibu Response LXi? If it’s a 5.7 liter, I use C3. For the 6.0 liters, C2
You’ll be skiing behind Malibu’s newest ski boat soon for their 2012 catalog shoot. What features are you most excited about? I don’t know much about the boat yet. I know that it has a brand-new haul design, and I am sure the wakes and pull are perfect. As I am sure every detail in the outside and inside will be built to perfection. From what I have heard, it’s going to be stunning.
Which event were you looking forward to the most this year? The World championships for sure. The Worlds is hosted once every two years, so it’s really special. The atmosphere, the adrenaline, you can almost feel the tension in the air. The tournament can really play head games with all its competitors.
Do you have a secret weapon to reclaim your World championship title this year in Russia? My mental approach, and the Goode TGAS edition.
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