– It’s a great feeling to be prepared. There have been many very difficult years, especially last year, and we have worked very hard. We probably didn’t expect it, says Maia Agerup.

These two simple twins qualified in the 49erFX class during the WC in Argentina in November. This week they were included in the list of athletes ready for the Olympiatoppen Olympics.

– The first thing we thought was “Damn, now we’ve come a long way”. I don’t think anyone who knows us would have expected this. The Olympics are just a long-term goal, says Ragna Agerup.

It’s not just brothers making their Olympic debut.

– The boat we are sailing now is completely new for the Olympics. No one has ever been to the Olympics in this type of boat.

– It’s very fast and technical. A lot of work, added Maia.

This week they trained at Fjærholmen in Nøtterøy. Then the World Cup awaits in Weymouth, before they undergo a training period in Norway. They added the Olympic rush to Rio, where they also spent several weeks in May.

– Can be the best in the world

Secretary General of the Norwegian Sailing Association, Espen Guttormsen, is confident the girls can go further. Very far.

– They are strong-willed girls, who have the potential to become the best in the world. There are two sisters that Norway will really enjoy in the long term, Guttormsen said.

He has followed the girls and seen that “they can stand tall,” no matter how difficult the situation they face.

– They have a big advantage because they are twins, often sail together and are able to face difficult situations, while other teams mostly lie and swim, explained the Secretary General.

The goal is to be in the top ten

Maia and Ragna themselves believe that knowing each other well has advantages and disadvantages.

– When we started sailing together, we had an advantage, but now the others have also been sailing together for hours, said Ragna.

– After all, Ragna is the only person who will do this with me, Maia confirmed.

– Who is the boss of the ship?

– I’m the one in charge, so it’s me, answered Ragna and smiled.

Now they can experience that dream together. Although it was achieved earlier than they believed.

– We have to hold the Olympics one by one. The goal is top ten, but anything can happen in Rio. “I think many will be surprised and many will be disappointed,” said Ragna.

– Is it impossible for you to take gold?

– No, but there’s still a lot to do, right? Ragna said.