New Year, New Goals

We leave behind a year full of memories and events that will go down in history, much like the two finals in Kona and Nice. We remember a year full of world records in freediving and of grand finales like Hayden’s. Of emotions, such as saying goodbye to Sebi; of big challenges, like Interseason; of adventures from our wild swimmers; of our projects, like Apex Cetacea; and of our commitment to being at the forefront of product design as we continue to offer innovations from OrcaLab.

2023 was a full year, which we revisit with the intention of using it as a starting point for 2024, giving us a new boost of energy as we set goals for the year ahead. We spoke with Team Orca triathletes Sarah True, Ashley Gentle and Bart Aernouts to reflect on their year and get a sense of what’s ahead for the new one.

Sarah True, our American triathlete who never stops smiling, recounted a “rewarding, satisfying and busy” year in 2023, where she managed to balance her studies, training and motherhood. With a victory in Frankfurt and an eighth place in Kona last year, she is ready to welcome everything that comes her way this year. For those who are starting out in the sport, she offered some advice that anyone can undoubtedly apply in more than one aspect of their lives. “We must look for joy in what we do since the world has a lot of potential. We must find what resonates with ourselves and have fun.” With this advice, it’s no wonder that her goals for the new season are to have fun, stay healthy and try as hard as possible, which is certainly what defines her as a person and athlete.

Ashley Gentle spoke to us from her native country in Australia and is enjoying a well-deserved rest after a season that stood out for her consistency and incredible performance in big events. Her goal for 2024 is to not change too many things, focus on building strength and gaining experience in the middle distance, avoiding injuries and maintaining her physical health. When asked for advice for beginners, she told us, “If you are starting out in the sport, share the journey, share the experience,” as any adventure is more enjoyable with company.

Finally, we shared a moment with Bart Aernouts, who reflected on a year in which he qualified for the medium- and long-distance World Championships and suffered an elbow fracture that halted his race schedule. It was a year of mixed feelings, with two podiums in Nice and Pays d’Aix and a season that ended ahead of schedule. It was a challenging year that gave way to a clear objective in 2024: to keep up with those who are starting with strength in the distance and to qualify for the World Cup in Hawaii in October 2024. If you are new to the sport, Bart’s suggestion is a wise one; “It’s about having fun, not taking it too seriously.”

From the Orca team, we wish you a happy start to the year, full of new challenges and commitment to carry them out, and don’t forget to share and enjoy the journey.