PlanetWaterSki: If you remember two years ago when I was making predictions for the Worlds at Recetto I made a comment to you that 2001 would most likely be your last worlds. You soon put me right! What are your plans for the next few years ??? Andy: Well, I'm not sure if this will be my last Worlds or not. My main focus is on the Pro events around the World. China does sound neat though! PlanetWaterSki: Your performances recently have been outstanding and as defending world slalom champion how is your confidence going to the Worlds ??? Andy: My confidence is no different than going to any other event and being defending World champion unfortunately makes the other guy's spot me any buoys! The Worlds obviously is premier for any sport, but my preparation is no different than any other event. Still have to make as many buoys as possible. PlanetWaterSki: We see so many skiers strapping up various parts of their body before skiing, what sort of shape is yours in?? Andy: Body is doing fine, does it look weathered? PlanetWaterSki: Tell me about your new skis, Sixam and the Enforcer and your relationship with O'Brien. Andy: Hopefully at the Worlds we will be introducing the Competition Series of high end tournament skis, the SIXAM and the ENFORCER. These are two completely new skis. We have spent the last couple of years listening to what it is skiers want in their equipment and through design, new materials and a new molding concept skiers will see a different and committed O'Brien. As we get closer there will be more and more information showing up on the web site www.andymapple.com These new skis will be available direct from my site along with any questions there may be in choosing the right ski. We will also have hand picked technical representatives around the world for any assistance that is needed. These will also be posted on the web site. ps I will be riding the SIXAM! PlanetWaterSki: What do you think of Will Asher, how big will he be ??? Andy: Not sure how big Will is going to be, don't you stop growing by the time you are 21. It is hard to say who will do what. There is a lot of talent out there, but I can say Will has a great attitude, definitely appears like he wants it and if you have that in your heart and a good work ethic then things will happen. (don't get me wrong he is already good) PlanetWaterSki: Will we see you in the UK to ski against Will at the nationals next year??? Andy: As far as coming to the Nationals to compete against Will, we skied in the same events a few times this year with all the top skiers in the World and Will needs to keep doing that as do all the British skiers. I am very proud of all the British skiers, we have great depth and great attitude. I am looking forward to the Worlds to see everyone perform. PlanetWaterSki: What keeps you motivated??? Andy: I love the sport and the people involved in it and it also gives me the time I want to spend with my family. Over the last couple of years we have spent the summers on the road together and I have still bee able to do my job for skiing and my sponsors. Sometime soon my children will not want to leave and travel with Mum and Dad, so I am trying to make the most of it while I can. This is the area I feel very blessed, that I can work within the industry, ski and be with my family.