Blanca Manchón is an athlete with an enviable career, having been immersed in water sports since the age of 7, with windsurfing as her specialty. A down-to-earth woman who loves what she does, despite frequent travels and competitions keeping her far from home. At just 17, she competed in the Olympic Games and now dreams of gold in London. We’re sure she’ll achieve it.
Yumping.- You come from a family of athletes—your parents and brother also share a passion for boardsports. What was it like growing up in that environment?
Blanca Manchón.- I’ve been used to this lifestyle since childhood, surrounded by athletes and travelling the world. For me, it’s been an incredible education, both professionally and personally.
Y.- And you’ve been on the water since the age of seven, starting with Optimist boats before moving to windsurfing...
B.M.- Yes, I spent a week in beginner sailing boats and got bored. My parents realised it was time to hand me a windsurf board.
Y.- You broke the record as the youngest sailor to compete in the Olympics. What did that milestone mean for your career?
B.M.- I remember it like a dream: being in Athens at 17, surrounded by the world’s best athletes. It felt like an adventure, pressure-free. That’s probably why I earned a diploma—for me, it was just a game.
Y.- Since then, you’ve collected countless awards. Which one was the hardest to achieve?
B.M.- In 2005, I was named Spain’s most promising athlete, an award I received alongside Fernando Alonso, among others. That year, I’d won the senior World Championship while still a junior—meaning I took two World titles at once. It was a huge challenge.
Y.- And the one you cherish the most?
B.M.- Qualifying for the Athens Olympics.
Y.- You recently won the fifth round of the RX:S World Cup in Holland, despite tough weather conditions. Was it difficult?
B.M.- It was a race with every possible wind condition. I’m an all-round sailor—I don’t excel in any single condition, but I adapt well. That’s what helped me win. The competition was fierce, and focus in every heat was crucial.
Y.- For readers unfamiliar with this category, could you briefly explain RX:S?
B.M.- It’s the name given to the windsurf board and sail model used in the Olympics. All women compete with identical equipment. Events usually last six days, with two races per day. Points accumulate based on results, and the lowest total wins.
Y.- You’re in close competition with Britain’s Bryony Shaw, with just one point between you... With two races left, do you think holding your position will be tough?
B.M.- If I stay consistent, I believe I can win. I’m going all out—Bryony’s an excellent sailor, so she’s one to watch closely.
Y.- But the biggest event is the World Championship in Denmark, where the ADO grant for Olympic preparation is at stake. That support is vital, right?
B.M.- Absolutely. Without these grants, travelling and training would be impossible. Thanks to them, I can live my passion—but you have to be the best to make it sustainable. Sadly, we’re not football.
Y.- Even though you competed in Athens at 17, London must be a major goal...
B.M.- It’s my dream. Now that I’m older, I see things differently—an Olympic medal is the pinnacle for any athlete. I’ll fight tooth and nail for a spot, and for that medal.
Y.- What’s a typical day like for Blanca?
B.M.- I wake up to music, hit the gym in the morning to build strength, then enjoy a good meal. Afternoons are for water training and windsurfing practice. Back home, it’s dinner, a film, and sleep!
Y.- More women like you are entering male-dominated sports. Was breaking into it difficult?
B.M.- Not at all. We’ve always fit in well. Honestly, I’d love to compete against the men and beat them!
Y.- You’re constantly travelling for competitions. How do you cope with being away from home so much?
B.M.- You get used to it. Some years, my suitcase never closes—but coming home is a luxury, especially when Mum cooks my favourite meal...
Y.- Your biggest wish?
B.M.- An Olympic gold medal.
