Sophie Mathews:
I get a buzz discovering something fresh and fun. I find inspiration in all sorts of things; food, fitness, friends and am constantly stimulated by sports and cultural experiences. Thinking back on it, maybe it was the long hot summer back in 2004 that opened up this whole world to me.
Me and my family first visited the Peligoni over 20 years ago and it was then that I discovered a love for the ocean. The excitement and stimulation that it gave me back then built confidence and a positive outlook to try new things.
Summers came and went over the years and I learnt to sail, wakeboard, windsurf, drive boats, even coach tennis. Yet there was one thing that made it all worth while and that was sharing the experiences with other people.
Windsurfing had really caught my attention and as one of the few girls who did it, I got all the encouragement and help from a couple of the very talented boat boys. Our banter and camaraderie along with the rush of riding was addictive, and without knowing it my level of windsurfing was improving rapidly. But where was I going with it, and was there any milage in pursuing the sport?
I was at the Peligoni the day that my A-Level results came through. The plan was, that if I passed I was starting my gap gear on the neighbouring island of Lefkas to teach at the biggest windsurfing centre in Europe; I got the grades and was gone by lunchtime!
The decision to follow my passion shaped my life in a way I could never have imagined. The windsurfing led to kiteboarding and competing on the World Tour. The sports, competition and travel schedule has challenged me both mentally and physically, but I’ve always worked hard at both, and I believe that I’m stronger and more driven for it.
Many tell me, that I lived more in the last 15 years than most people have in a lifetime and I put that down to a positive perspective and a dash of boldness. And what have I learnt from my experiences? Dream big, never underestimate your true potential and that you don’t always have to follow the crowds. Believe in yourself, never say never and above all look after yourself both mentally and physically.
And what have I learnt from my experiences? Dream big, never underestimate your true potential and that you don’t always have to follow the crowds.
YOU & THE WATER
When it comes to watersports, we have always operated on an all-is-welcome policy. Whatever your stance on watersports may be, we’re here to ensure you get the best out of it. From the ‘never-even-thought-I’d-try-its’ to the casual experts, we hope that all our guests will give something a go – you never know what might happen!
Discover more here.
