Iker Zabala (Bermeo, Bizkaia, 1979), head coach of the men's first team at Orio Arraunketa Elkartea, and his rowers will depart tomorrow for Buitrago de Lozoy, where the Euskotren and Euskotren leagues will commence this year. There, they aim to familiarize themselves with the racecourse and decide the crew for Sunday's regatta based on their sensations.
Zabala expresses satisfaction with expanding the sport to new locations, although he believes that competing in only one regatta and on two lanes can distort the competition. "It would be better to race on Saturday and Sunday, and have four boats competing," he stated, adding that dimensions and differences between lanes might influence this decision.
He claims that being favorites does not create pressure; internal competition is paramount, with few positions and many rowers. "After last year's season, people are talking about Orio, but internally, I see every day that the guys are eager to be starters," he explained.
According to the coach, his goal is for the boat to go as fast as possible, and to pace the effort to maintain a high level throughout the season, especially in September. "In the summer, when we get into competition, and especially if a bad regatta occurs, that does keep me awake," he admitted, but for now, he sees the season progressing well.
To motivate the rowers year after year, he tells them they must go slightly faster than last year. Based on winter physical assessments, he sees this year's team as stronger than last year's, but believes this will only be reflected on the water during the summer.
Regarding other teams, he believes Donostiarra, Bermeo, Hondarribia, and Getaria are performing well, and reminds that surprises can occur. "We have to do everything within our power, without looking too much outwards," he emphasized.
According to this year's regulations, half of the boat must consist of rowers from the club's youth system. He highlighted that Orio has nine rowers in its squad and a strong rowing school, dispelling criticism. "It's an old debate, and we need to find a solution to see more youth rowers in the clubs," he said, stressing the need for clubs to reflect together.
Zabala mentioned hypocrisy in the world of rowing and stressed the importance of offering solutions, not just including more youth rowers. "Rowing is not just about the trainera," he stated, proposing to open doors and gather opinions to turn the situation around.
The club's main objective is to win the La Concha Flag, and Zabala's personal goal is for the boat to be as fast as possible, believing that the flags will follow. He acknowledged that surpassing last year's performance will be difficult, but reiterated that this should be the aim.
