F1H2O
Can you tie both things together?
Both performing and racing is a competition and is about having to
give the very best of what you’ve got. The nice thing about racing
is that in one way it is very simple. Either you are number one or
you have to work harder. In music there are so much personal
opinions you need to win over. And often also a lot of distractions
that has nothing to do with the actual music. A singers dress can
be more discussed that the song she performs. In sport it’s all
about winning.
What is your most satisfying moment in F1?
My most satisfying moment in F1 must be my weekend in
Portimao in 2011. Winning the pole was one thing, but holding on
to the lead was a great feeling.
How much time do you dedicate yourself for training?
Sponsorship searching?
I’ve logged my average working hours the past two months and I
think I spend in average 5 hours every day for racing. It’s more or
less 2 hours of workout and hours of oǸce work. It’s everything
from booking tickets, to sending invoices, booking and going to
meetings to answering 20 questions from Steve Michael!!
What special things do you do for your sponsors?
:e have a lot to offer our sponsors. Our new two-seater
promotional boat gives us the opportunity to do events where we
give them a chance to feel what this sport really is. I do concerts,
speeches about motivation and my life in racing while we can also
arrange sponsor parties where we do everything from ïip burger
to sing bringing along the two-seater, etc.
Are you getting all the respect and attention from the national
press in Norway?
The media attention in Norway is increasing and there’s actually
quite a lot of articles, TV programs etc. We’re not by far up there
with the skiers, but working very hard to raise the interest level.
Who are your closest friends on the tour that you have a special
bond with?
I’m very happy to have found my husband on the tour. Andrea
works in Abu Dhabi as a mechanic. I have got a lot of friends in the
racing world and for sure some enemies as well.
Do you see more women racing in the future?
There are more female racers in Norway now and in the smaller
classes there’s close to 40% women/girls. I’m very proud of this
and see it as a healthy sign for the future. It’s possible to win as
a woman, but requires a lot of hard work and dedication. I believe
some of the youngsters have this quality in them.
What are you doing to spread the sport in your own way?
We are working hard to promote the sport in the media in order
to attract more racers and sponsors. I have a Junior Team at
home with 4 drivers in three different classes. And I’ve currently
become the coach of §Team Norway Powerboat¨ which is a team
sponsored by the federation. In addition, we’re touring with the
two-seater and trying to make some noise for the sport as well!
Thank you Marit for taking the time so when can get to know you
a little better. Best of luck this upcoming 2014 season!
16 | H20 MAGAZINE - MARCH 2014
h2oracing.net
