After being in Australia for some weeks Philip Köster (19) has returned to his home Vargas (Gran Canaria), where he lives right at the beach with wind and waves just in front of the house. The two times PWA Wave world champion had a busy autumn. He competed in the final event of the PWA World Tour on Maui, although he was suffering a staph infection. He spent some time in Florida before he flew to Western Australia, to sail and seal the contract with his new sail sponsor Severne. After that he was in Germany and came home just in time for Christmas. Philip: “I am really motivated to prepare well for the 2014 season.”
How did the staph infection happen and are you 100% fit again? The infection came from a coral cut, but it was worse than initially thought. Although I applied ointment on the wound, I got fever and felt totally weak and dizzy. The doctor gave me antibiotics, such large tablets, which I have never seen before. Like that I competed in the single. I felt sick from the medications and sailed my heats without any warm up. After the double I had to drive immediately to the hospital because the sepsis had spread. That was quite a shocker for me. I knew that there will be some talking about me, but in that moment it did not matter to me. I was not able to show what I can. But because Chile got cancelled, I wanted to give it a try, even though I already knew that my performance could be interpreted as weak, but I prefer to keep myself away from such discussions.
Philip below the water at Christmas
Why did you decide to leave Neil Pryde? Neil Pryde was a great sponsor, we always had a great collaboration. But this time, after 5 years, they wanted me to join the JP team, but I did not want, so we broke up.
You have been with Severne Sails in the beginning of your career. What is your first impression of the new sails? The sails are very powerful and yes I am really happy to be part of the Severne team again. I have been knowing Ben Severne for a long time and we have always had a great collaboration. I will be busy with sail development, too. To develop had been an interest of mine for years and with Ben I am able to realize it.
Philip tests the new sails at Gnaraloo, WA
Any specific winter plans? I have not planned the winter yet. Let’s see. First I will celebrate Christmas at home and then go snowboarding, maybe. I will certainly train with the wind from the right and wave riding, but the most important is the fun. I prefer not too much planning and to make decisions spontaneous.
Any other news? Two weeks ago I heard that I am the third time PWA youth world champion. This is a nice ending for the year.
And the latest news are that Philip returned to Da Kine and will be sponsored by Hurley in 2014.
©CONTINENTSEVEN 2013
