Nominee profile: Ana Carrasco
The Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year category can claim to be one of the most competitive categories of all at Laureus 2019. Whether it’s relative newcomers like Jakob Ingebrigtsen, making a huge impact at a young age or more established athletes like Geraint Thomas stepping up a gear, the field for this category is – to say the least – competitive.
One nominee has faced plenty of challenges in her short career so far is Ana Carrasco.
As a woman making her way in the world of male-dominated motorcycle racing, life hasn’t always been easy. The world ‘Breakthrough’ is about as apt as it gets. That she went on to win the World Title in the World Supersport 300 category last season points to supreme talent as well as a deep reserve of determination.
“It’s been difficult,” she admits. “I’ve had some problems, I don’t know if it’s because I’m a woman or not, but for sure it was really difficult. But it’s changed how people look at me – I just try to work in the race like all the riders, but the opportunities to step into the world and show everyone that a woman can win is important for the future.”
And whilst she prepares for the coming season, the prospect of winning the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award in Monaco next week is enticing.
“It’s one of the most important awards – I’ve watched it on TV many times and I hope to win, for sure.”
You get the feeling that whatever happens in Monaco next week at the Laureus World Sports Awards, Carrasco has got the taste for winning.
