> Jimmy Visser, eight times the best of the world

11/30/2006

In November 24th 25th and 26 2006 happened the FreeRide World Champioship, in Vila Beach, Imbituba/SC. The South African Jimmy Visser was the champion in Sit Down class.

With 46 years old Jimmy Visser is a myth in Sit Down class, with his perfects and precise tricks. Jimmy's the first of all in Free Ride's France round, second in Portugal and fourth in Spain. The rider got his eighth world title disputing the final with French Pierre Maixent.

Jimbo - Photo : Inema

"I love Brazil and compete here. I hope win and got more one title in Brazil like the surfer Kelly Slater", says the rider before the final. Jimmy eminences the Vila Beach's beauty, too: "Imbituba is beautiful, has potential to big waves. This year, unfortunately, we haven't waves, so everything can happen."

The Back Flip, a complete 360 invert is the most difficult trick for him, but Jimmy always search innovate: "I try do it without the hands! It's harder", tells. Ex surfer, the surf is what the rider prefer: "Jump is cool, but surf is the most beautiful! It's what I prefer to watch, too", he explains.

Jimbo - Photo : Inema

In the first battery, dispute on Friday, Jimmy had problems with your jet and ride with other rider's jet. "We're a big family! There are a great relationship between the rider, of course it's the final and all wants win, but is better when the opponent is your friend", believes.

Jimmy started ride of jet-ski in 1996. "I rode with moto and bodyboarding, but It's looking for something else to do. In jet I found the perfect combination", remembered. The first competition and title were in 1998. "It's fantastic ride jet in the sea! It's so much adrenaline, you don't think in the problem, just join the waves. Everybody has a fun, especially when we're with friends and do big tricks."

For Jimmy the best ride of the world is his son, James Visser that was one of the leaders of championship: "We had been started together. In my opinion he is the best ride of the world in Sit Down and Stand Up classes. Unfortunately he stopped to ride in jet. Now he's only surf and bodyboard", lamented.

Participating of all Jet Waves, Jimmy thanks to his friend, Tchello: "It isn't only for Jet Waves in Brazil, but for all work of IFWA around the world. I thank to my sponsor, organization and the guys that competed, too", ends. Now, Jimmy's in the group that have eight world titles together Valentino Rossi, on Motospeed and Michael Schumacher, on F1''

Jimbo - Photo : Inema

Note and photos : Inema

click here to back Interview list  

up