Wednesday, 2 March, DUBAI (UAE): Norway’s Marit Stromoy heads into the new season knowing that she can beat the best-of-the-best after her historic win in Sharjah last season, and the Team EMIC driver is confident that she can carry that momentum into 2016. “We are ready. We've been doing some updates on the equipment, but have not been able to test them out yet. I've also spent a lot of time and energy training in the gym every day. The training is an important part of my preparations for the season and I feel strong and mentally ready to start a new season.”

Beside the all-important pre-race preparations a crucial role for Stromoy is securing the vital funding and commercial partners for the team. “Being a private team depending 100% on sponsorship we are working constantly to increase our possibilities. The sponsor work is demanding and very important before the season starts. I've got a few more sponsors this year and we are very happy to have secured the season. This is the biggest part of my work.”

Looking ahead to the races she said. “This year we will work on trying to finish all the races without problems. With our modifications made to the boat last year we proved that we can be up there and now we need to continue the work. I'm very happy with my team of mechanics and together we work very well!

“Winning the Sharjah Grand Prix meant achieving my long time goal as a racer. It was huge for me and we've got a lot of media exposure after it. This is my 27th season as a racer. I've proven that with a lot smaller budget and possibilities we are able to win a race in the toughest class in powerboating. I hope to win again and naturally my expectations are high, but I don't feel I'm under pressure. I just love doing what I do.”