Photo: @isasurfing
Yolanda Hopkins - the Portuguese 2 times Olympian has finally qualified full time for the World Tour after a few near misses over the years. ‘Yo’ is really popular amongst her fellow competitors and fans alike with her work rate, carve based approach and outgoing nature much respected by those at the top tier of the sport and beach fans alike. With family in the UK and a full time British coach in John Tranter, Yolanda has always maintained especially good relationship with us Brits. Winning Boardmasters at Newquay 3 times helps too.
On the eve of her first season on the tour we had a quick catch up with Yo.
Interview Joel Gray
What are you most looking forward to about being on Tour?
I think actually it is to prove myself against the best surfers in the world in the best waves. Im also looking forward to renewing friendships too.
You are famous for being the first up every single day at competitions. Will that continue?
Absolutely, it has worked so far. Mostly we like to be up so early so that I can catch more waves with less people and we always try to be the first out no matter what.
Is there anything you are changing this year after stepping up from the Challenger Series?
The whole programme with John (Tranter - Coach) remains very similar. It is always evolving such as constantly testing different brands and designs of boards but I have a great relationship with my shaper (Fatum Surfboards). I feel my boards evolve perfectly in sync wit my surfing. My psychologist, nutritionist and physical conditioning crew all remain the same.
Photo: @isasurfing
When did you first believe that you could qualify for the Tour?
This was about 7 years ago when I first started working full time with John.
Which surfers are you most looking forward to surfing against?
Carissa is the one for me although I also like to go up against Stef. Although veterans they are the real benchmark still and you have to really push yourself in those situations.
They just released your comp jersey. You have number 98.
Why’s that? Thats the year I was born, simple as that.
Also looks like you have a Portuguese and a Union Jack flag on your vest?
That’s right. Obviously I am Portuguese and represent this country but my mum’s family are from Wales so the Union Jack is to honour my British family.
Photo: @prosurfmedia
What do you think are the biggest differences / challenges you’ll face on the World Tour?
The wave quality I think is the main one closely followed by the highest level of performance.
You’ve qualified for the Olympics and now the World Tour. Which one feel best?
Making the Tour was always our goal and dream. When the Olympics came a reality it was a ‘must do on the way’ experience. Achieving our initial dream after a lot of gruelling hard work was insanely satisfying. I feel sad for those surfers who qualified easily as they never got to feel the joy I did.
Any messages to younger surfers reading this?
My hopes are to inspire younger generations and for them to see that hard work with get you there. It does not matter what stickers you have but how much work you put in in order to fulfil you dreams.
Thanks and good luck.
