Philip Hagen is one of Team BDA’s athletes who had little or no sailing experience before earning his way onto the team. The 20-year-old from Warwick did, however, have a background in competitive swimming that helped to develop the mental and physical attributes needed for Team BDA.

Before joining the team full time in January, the Saltus graduate was able to load up on courses at Queen’s University, where he is studying accounting, so that he could take time off to compete and still return to university this fall as a junior.

Philip is training for the position of bowman with Team BDA in this summer’s Red Bull Youth America’s Cup.

Who is the Bermudian you most admire? Roy-Allan Burch because after his most recent injury, that left him in a wheelchair for months, he was still able to make the Olympic “B” time. He showed me that hard work, determination and the right mental attitude can allow you to achieve things that in theory shouldn’t be possible.

Who is your sporting hero? Michael Phelps because of what he has achieved throughout his swimming career.

If you weren’t on Team BDA, you would be? Pursuing my degree in accounting.

What would surprise people about you? I can play multiple instruments such as trombone, trumpet, French horn and piano.

What do you do in your spare time? Well, the time I have off from training is usually spent either sleeping or working.

Somerset or St George’s for Cup Match? Somerset.

What is your favourite Bermuda symbol or icon? The Bermuda flag because it reminds me of home and the place that I am most proud of.

What is your favourite Bermudian phrase? Ey Bie

What are three songs you love right now?You and Me by Marc E. Bassy; Say You Won’t Let Go by James Arthur; Call on Me by Starley

What’s your favourite ice cream? Vanilla.

Netflix binge watching?Blue Bloods.

What is one movie you think everyone should see?Saving Private Ryan.

What muscles do you have now you didn’t before? Abs.

How many push-ups could you do before this and how many can you do now? It used to be 20-something; now it’s 55.

What do you eat or drink now that you didn’t eat before? Lots of protein shakes and supplements.

What don’t you eat or drink now that you did before? Sweets, chocolate and ice cream.