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Risto
Asher pictured with his Malibu Response TXi moments after his record tying run of 2 at 43 off. Photo: thomasgustafson.com
What were the main changes, besides getting on a new ski, that you made from last year to this year? I not only looked at my equipment and how I run buoys, but also looked at every part of my life to see if there were places that I could improve — body, mind and training. Every set has to count. I can’t just go out there and waste a set anymore when I’m in season. I don’t just go run back-to-backs; I go out there to figure things out and get it done.
What do you see as the next step forward in your own development? Understanding what it takes to run that kind of a score [running 41], and really understanding how the pass changes from 41 to 43. When you can get to 2 [at 43 off], you feel like you can maybe get to 3, and then maybe the pass is possible. Running 43 is definitely not there now and isn’t really around the corner, but it’s something to work toward, and that’s my goal.
To run down 43? It sounds crazy, and it’s not even there yet, so for now I’m happy with getting a piece of 2, and to do it with my boat, my ski, and close to my house, that’s cool!
Since the interview, Asher has continued his roll, winning the World Cup in Palembang, Indonesia, on Nov. 24. The victory propelled him to the top of the IWSF Elite Ranking List. “What an amazing end to a challenging season,” he says. “Makes all the blood, sweat and tears worth repeating.”
Interviewed By John Mommer
