Although, in relative terms I am new to sailing, I do have my Basic Keel Boat Certification which took 40+ hours of hands on training, and I studied for and passed the American Sailing Association test for certification.
I took the test four times as I am dyslexic and I have to turn all of the problems around in my mind to get the correct answers, otherwise they are reversed and since this is a multiple choice test, therefore, incorrect. Although, in practical training I was the only student to get the man overboard back on the boat on the first try, not once, but four times in a row. Please, don’t ask me to explain how I do this, but it is very difficult.
I joined the Berkeley Yacht Club and that first summer the Race Committee. Race Committee runs and officiates the yacht races for the club. There are many flags, and a complex system of whistles and gun shots to conduct the races.
There is a lot to do on the committee boat, but it is exhilarating to be so close to the start and watch the finish. The best part, however, is working with the most amazing women sailors, who have incredible histories in the sailing world.
My business partner and I own a sailboat, or more specifically our company owns the sailboat. Solana, was lovingly restored by mostly Andrew. I want to say I helped, but I did not. I saw the potential and encouraged him, but Andrew and his friends did all the work.
We recently started racing and our Santa Cruz 27 really is as fast as they are known to be. It’s true they move through the water with agility and grace.
Recently, Andrew told me he was surprised by how good of a sailor I was. We were having drinks with my sailing instructor Tom Dryja at the time. Tom and I were surprised that he was surprised. Andrew said that he expected me to be competent, but was surprised I could steer as well as I could and that he could trust me. He was after all putting the spinnaker up at the bow during a race in a good deal of wind.
When I did my man overboard training I thought of the person overboard as my child, and I had no problem turning the ship around and pulling my baby out of the water. I think that is essentially what makes me a good sailor.
Sailing is a very intimidating sport that has an emphasis on merit as evidenced by the skill witnessed during the recent race series.
Although, I have so much to learn to become a sailor like the legendary Bobbi Tosse and her friends, I am willing to try and hope to one day race in the PacCup. Maybe I won’t win it like she did, or do it a dozen times, but someday I hope to try.
It’s been an honor to be on the Yacht Club Race Committee for the past two years. I hope for many more memorable races and the amazing people and friendships that come with it.
Love and blessings to all.
Sydney 