Role: Grinder

Olympic gold medallist Martin Kirketerp is back in Danish colours for the first time since securing gold for his country on the world’s biggest stage – and can’t wait to represent Denmark again, this time in SailGP.

Martin is one of just a few SailGP athletes to have enjoyed Olympic success, having taken the win at the 2008 Beijing Games in the 49er class on a thrilling last day of competition.

And as evidence that winning is in his genes, he is still winning world titles over a decade later – most recently in the TP52 Super Series where he raced to victory in both 2017 and 2019.

He grew up in Aarhus, where he sailed a variety of small, single-handed boats before moving into the 49er class and making waves on the international scene.

Martin is extremely driven and constantly looks for new challenges. Following his Olympic success in 2008, he turned to round-the-world racing – competing in several legs of The Ocean Race 2011-12 with Team Sanya.

Career Highlights

2008 – Olympic Games (49er class) – Gold

2009 – RC44 Championship Tour – Winner

2011-12 – The Ocean Race – Team Sanya

2017 – TP52 Super Series – World Champion

2019 – TP52 Super Series – World Champion

Stats

Position: Grinder
Nationality: Danish
Hometown: Aarhus
Date of Birth: 13 July 1982
Weight: 100 kg
Height: 187cm

Martin has outstanding thermal performace

The athletes on Team ROCKWOOL Racing tried to figure out which team member fits each of the seven strengths of stone the best. Martin was nominated as 'thermal performance' by Nicolai!

Why?

“Olympic gold medallist Martin is known for always keeping his cool – even when the pressure is on. He’s a great influence to have around the team, and is very focused on how we can become more efficient in everything we do. Also, he’s tough, and always wearing shorts, whatever the weather – a true Viking!”

How does ROCKWOOL harness this strength?

Stone wool delivers optimal thermal performance. It keeps your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter, saving you money and keeping you comfortable.

Martin Kirketerp  - 7 Strengths of Stone