Elena Šandera | Follow my journey to the Olympics

Before 2021 I was a regular student. I had just graduated high school and gotten into the medical school of my dreams. But at the start of 2021 everything changed.

I decided to embark on an exciting and life changing adventure that is helping me grow into the best version of myself. I re-discovered my passion for windsurfing and decided on a whim to try and participate in the new Olympic Windsurf Class called iQ Foil Class.

Without any previous foiling experience, that goal was and still is incredibly ambitious and I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I struggled through many set backs and I was close to giving up so many times I lost count.

However, my drive to challenge myself and step outside my comfort zone to achieve the unachievable has kept me going through all the ups and downs.

In April 2024 my dream came true: I managed to qualify Switzerland for the Olympic Games 2024! Despite this achievement, I was unfortunately not allowed to participate at the Games due to not being selected by Swiss Sailing.

Despite this huge disappointment, I've decided to not let it stop me. I will continue to fight for greatness and I have my eyes firmly set on my nomination for LA 2028.

You can now support me by donating and be part of my journey to the top!

Upcoming Races

Each year I compete in many different events. This calendar will keep you up to date on any upcoming races. In order to build a successful four year plan for LA 2028 I need a lot of racing experience so you will mainly catch me on the road, traveling from regatta to regatta!

30 March 2025 - 5 April 2025
Princess Sofia Regatta
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
21 April 2025 - 26 April 2025
Olympic Sailing Week
Hyères, France
8 July 2025 - 13 July 2025
World Championships
Aarhus, Denmark

How to Find Sponsors as an Athlete - A Guide.

As any athlete that is active in a lesser known sport, I do not make a lot of money as a professional windsurfer...

€35.00

Support me with my goal to reach LA 2028

I'm gearing up for the next four years to push myself to my absolute best. While in 2024 my goal was simply to qualify my country, that is not enough for me now. I want gold in 2028 and I will make sure I get it!