Zonta makes a splash

He tried windsurfing and wakeboarding and also kiteboarding, the world's fastest growing sport, after completing his usual, more conventional work out routine.

American windsurfing legend Robby Naish, who is an ardent F1 fan, was his instructor for the day, and believes that atheletes should try a variety of sports to prepare them for their own. Naish was recently treated to a spin in the two seater McLaren F1 car, and so has a good idea of the stresses and strains a GP driver is subject to.

"I believe crossover sports are really important for any athlete's training - and Grand Prix drivers truly are athletes," claimed Naish.

" I'm a lifelong race fan and have raced myself. There's a lot of similarity between race driving and any board-sport. It's all about speed, precision, focus, balance and understanding the importance of the correct racing line. I believe any racing driver could benefit from including windsurfing in his physical fitness program."

Last year, Zonta's race weekend could barely have been worse, as he broke his foot during free practice and was forced to sit out the next three races. This year, however, Zonta believes that a podium finish may be possible. BAR Honda scored their first points in the Australian GP earlier this month, and the team tested extensively in South Africa trying to optimise the car and engine for Interlagos's long straights and high altitude.