How long have you been in the sport of Sailing?

Since Primary School

What Club, Association or company are you involved with?

Albert Sailing Club

What Part do you play in our sport?

Sailor

Tell us how you first got involved with Sailing

My Dad sailed since he was 10 years old after being taught by his father and our house was filled with his trophies from regattas on Albert Park Lake, so even before I could swim I wanted to be out on the water with him.

There are many pathways in sailing, where has your journey taken you?

Over the years I have not always sailed as much as I would have liked but every now and then when I get to the club and on the water, catch up with the wonderful club members and feel the boat take off with a gust of wind I remember that is something I will always come back to. I have done Better Sailing courses and mostly gone for casual sails with occasional club races in the most recent past.

Whatever part of sailing you belong to, tell us about what you enjoy about your sport?

I love the dynamic wind on Albert Park Lake, the sense of accomplishment with perfectly timed rolling tacks and the feeling of acceleration as the breeze captures the sail. One of the best things, however, has been the sense of community and warmth of the club members who can tell me stories about my Dad and Grandpa.

What would you say to someone thinking about getting into sailing?

It can be an amazing hobby just for pure enjoyment, like the casual weekend sail or local yacht club race, which is how it has always been for me. But it can be technical, challenging and exciting with always more to learn. You can also use the sport to enter wonderful genuine communities of like-minded people who love being on and off the water.

Tell us your favourite story ….

One time I capsized at Albert Park Lake and after a bit of a struggle managed to dislodge the mast which somehow had gotten stuck in the mud in a shallow area. Unfortunately, as I flung the boat up and catapulted myself into the hull I managed to look up at the sail at the exact moment a dollop of mud fell down from the mast into my face!