Olympic profile: Sebastien Godefroid

Finn sailor and leading Belgium Olympian

Sebastien Godefroid is Belgium's top Olympic sailor and a veteran of the Finn class. He was also a regular competitor in Jean-Luc Nelias' Belgacom team, before the boat was sold to become the new Gitana XI.

Godefroid has been competing in the Finn since 1993 during which time he has been a regular on the podium finishing sixth at the Sydney Games and second in Savannah. This latest Olympic cycle has seen him put in a string of wins such as at Keilerwoche, Hyeres and the Princess Sofia in 2003 as winning the pre-Ainslie Finn Gold Cup in 2001.

Where and when were you born? 19/3/71 Antwerp, Belgium

Marital status? Living with girlfriend Carolijn Brouwer

What's your biggest event or championship win? Finn Gold Cup 2001

Any other notable regattas you'd like to mention? Second Atlanta 96

Where did you grow up? Kapellen, Belgium

If you're not sailing what job would you do? Sailing anyway or other sports

What other sports do you do outside sailing? Now, nothing, otherwise skiing, MTB,

Any other hobbies or interests? no

Favourite method of relaxing? Sailing, a beer

Favourite bar or pub? Peppermint, Ostend

What inspired you to take up sailing? Fun, nature

Which class did you first race in? Optimist, Europe, Laser, Finn

How did you buy your first boat? St Nicolas bought it for me

Have you ever used a coach and who were they? Yes, plenty. Christian Maes, Johan Teuwen, Luc Van Keirsbilck, Herman van dormael, Rob Sepers, Michel Lefebvre, Malte Filip, Stephane deleglise, Cor Vandernagel

What's your most memorable moment in sailing? Silver medal in ’96 and sailing a 60 foot trimaran

Outside the Olympics, what's your biggest remaining goal in sailing? Volvo Ocean Race

How much time do you spend on the water each week? Spp. 20hours

Do you have a sponsor and if so, who? Nissan (cars), Bellerose(clothing) , Belgacom(telecommunication)

Who are your sailing heroes and why? none

What is the best excuse you've ever made for a poor performance in a race? none

What's your favourite sailing venue and why? Sydney, it’s just fantastic!

What's your greatest strength in sailing? Not givin’ up and joy!

What's your greatest weakness in sailing? No weakness is great…

What's the single most important piece of advice you could give to younger sailors? Enjoy and never give up!