Initially, sailing was just a fun activity for Cecilia until she turned 15. It was then that she realised her passion for competition. Her Olympic dream ignited when she watched the 2004 Athens Games on television at the age of 17. This moment marked the beginning of her journey towards becoming an Olympic athlete.

Club and Coaching

Cecilia is a member of Yacht Club Rosario in Argentina. She trains under the guidance of coach Juan de La Fuente. Her dedication to the sport and rigorous training have been pivotal in her success.

Achievements and Milestones

One of Cecilia's most notable achievements came at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games. She and fellow Argentinian sailor Santiago Lange won gold in the Nacra 17 class, making them the first sailors from Argentina to achieve this feat. This victory was a significant milestone in her career.

Switching Classes

Before competing in the Nacra 17 class, Cecilia sailed a Laser Radial boat. She switched to the Nacra 17 class in 2013 and began competing with Santiago Lange in March 2014. The switch proved to be a great motivation for her as it allowed her to work in a team environment.

Personal Life and Interests

Cecilia resides in Argentina and is fluent in English, French, Italian, and Spanish. She enjoys coffee and theatre during her leisure time. Her brother Francisco has also made a name for himself by competing in wakeboarding at an international level.

Influences and Philosophy

Cecilia's father Pancho has been the most influential person in her career. She also looks up to Argentinian sailor Santiago Lange as her idol. Her sporting philosophy is encapsulated in her motto: "If you don't dream, your engine will switch off."

Awards and Honours

Cecilia had the honour of being a torchbearer at the opening ceremony of the 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This recognition highlights her status as an esteemed athlete in her country.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Cecilia aims to win a medal at the upcoming Olympic Games. Her determination and past successes indicate that she is well on her way to achieving this goal.

Cecilia Carranza Saroli's journey from a young girl sailing on her father's boat to an Olympic gold medallist is inspiring. Her dedication, hard work, and passion for sailing continue to drive her towards new heights in her career.