|
Best day
Thursday. I was a little surprised the race committee let us start in such difficult conditions – 70-plus XODs drifting around the Solent without an engine to get home. After the start it all went horribly wrong and we followed the entire fleet around the first. Some smart sailing by my crew (Richard Lovering and
Brett Cokayne) helped us get through a wall of 100 boats and we were 5th by the finish.
Worst day
Our worst day in terms of results was really our
best day! We had to finish close to Stuart Jardine
and if he didn’t win the race, we had the Week. By
the end we’d made sure all our competition was
with us. I’ve never been so happy to finish 36th!
Top tips for winning
It’s not about taking risks to win races, but putting
a series together and our aim each day is to finish
in the top ten. Stay in touch with the leaders and
your competition and you will be up there.
Biggest error
It was a few years back. The wind dropped to nothing, I lost all steering and we drifted past the finish line ODM. It cost us 30 minutes and a lot of places.
Luck or judgement?
There is a certain amount of luck during the Week– we’ve had our fair share of both good and bad!
You need to be switched on all the time.
Most important pre-race prep
Cowes Week is not just about boat speed; there
are so many factors to consider and lots of
decisions to make before you go on the water.
Favourite conditions
Having a crew on the heavy side, I guess. I feel comfortable when we are all sitting on the side.
Racing/social balance
I’m too old for all-nighters, but I enjoy a few beers after racing, win or lose. Just don’t go over the top. I certainly couldn’t do Cowes without a drink.
| 
