Sailfaster: The Podcast For Racing Sailors

GPS-based starting systems are changing sailboat racing — whether sailors like it or not.  In this episode, Pete Boland talks to Todd Wilson, co-founder of Vakaros, about how RaceSense and modern GPS technology are transforming starts, protests, race management, and training.(Note this is NOT a sponsored episode!)Todd explains why even elite sailors struggle to ping a line accurately, how RaceSense works, why starts are becoming tighter and more aggressive, how Olympic, J/70, and TP52 fleets are adapting.. and why he was “happy to lose a protest” using his own system’s dataIt’s a fascinating look at the technology reshaping competitive sailing — from club racing to the Olympic level.

Ambre Hasson went from learning to sail in 2020 to completing the Mini Transat just five years later. In this episode, she shares her rapid rise into offshore racing, including losing her first boat during qualification and rebuilding her campaign from scratch.She discusses resilience, managing fear, and key performance ideas like pacing, pushing to the “friction point,” and preserving the boat as a critical part of racing fast. Drawing on endurance sports, Ambre explains how handling discomfort and risk is central to success offshore.Now moving into the Class40 circuit, she outlines her next goals and what it takes to keep progressing at the highest level.

Kristen Berry kindly invited me to take part in North U / American Sailing’s Performance Race Week in St Thomas this February; this collaborative episode is a detailed debrief of that programme. We unpack the structure of the week, the coaching approach, the type of sailors who benefit, and the key performance insights—from start sequence execution and acceleration mechanics to decision-making and the mental game under pressure. All of it played out in IC24s in consistently challenging – and beautiful - Caribbean conditions. If you’re looking to refine your racing process and extract marginal gains, there’s a lot in here to take away.  Hope you find something you can use on the water this Spring!

Olympian and performance coach Lara Dallman Weiss joins Sailfaster to unpack what actually makes boats go faster—and it’s not just technique.From her background in Olympic 470 racing to keelboat campaigns and coaching, Lara shares a holistic view of performance that blends decision-making, teamwork, communication and mindset. At the core is a simple idea: sailing is constant problem-solving, and the best sailors are the ones who can stay calm, identify what matters, and take the next step.We get into how to manage pressure, why the “human” side of sailing is often overlooked, and how small gains—whether in training, communication or preparation—add up over time. Lara also talks about building alignment within a team, making the most of limited time on the water, and why focusing on process beats chasing results.This is a conversation about clarity, consistency and learning to perform when it counts.  (Image courtesy of Salty Brother)

in Part 2 of our discussion, Morgan “Truby” Trubovich returns to finish his deep dive on what actually wins races: process, communication, and smart feedback. He explains when results do matter, why elite teams talk like air-traffic control, and how onboard audio/video accelerates learning—often with audio proving more valuable than the camera.  So much to learn from the Kiwi legend!  

I was lucky enough to sit down with Morgan Trubovich—better known as “Truby”—one of the most quietly dominant sailors in the sport. Across a career spanning 19 world championships, America’s Cup victories, major offshore wins, and elite one-design racing, Truby has developed a philosophy that consistently produces top-tier results across any class, crew, or campaign.Over two episodes, he reveals why process beats results, how communication can make or break a race, why calm execution matters more than raw talent, and how brutally honest feedback—especially audio—reshapes what teams think is happening on board. He also shares stories from visually-impaired world championships, America’s Cup campaigns, and the systems he now teaches to winning programs around the world.This is a masterclass in turning ideas into behaviors, staying calm through chaos, and why the quietest approach often produces the loudest results.  Enjoy Part 1 and look out for Part 2 next week!  (Image by Hannah Lee Boll)

This week on SailFaster, we break down one of the most misunderstood parts of the sport: junior sailing—not as childcare, not as summer camp, but as a high-performance pipeline that can transform an entire racing community.Host Pete Boland sits down with Madde Vachon and Travis Carlisle of Annapolis’ Severn Sailing Association to reveal what really happens inside a modern junior program. Spoiler: these kids log more hours, more starts, and more reps than many adult racers get in a year.Together, they unpack why juniors switch into “race mode” faster than most adults, how burnout and coaching quality shape the long-term pipeline, and why the next generation is shockingly anti-technology. They also explore how young sailors raise the bar in adult fleets—tightening starts, sharpening boat handling, and sometimes humbling sailors twice their age.If you’ve ever wondered how a 15-year-old just rolled you upwind—or how to rebuild your own fundamentals—this episode is your wake-up call.

We’re joined by professional offshore sailor and fellow Brit, Will Harris, one of the most interesting figures in modern ocean racing. From the Solitaire du Figaro to IMOCA 60s and The Ocean Race, Will shares what life really looks like at the top end of the sport.Now based in Lorient, France — the epicentre of offshore sailing — Will explains why today’s ocean racers must be true all-rounders, how IMOCA technology and foiling are transforming racing, and what goes into building and optimising these cutting-edge boats.The conversation digs into decision-making under pressure, risk management, teamwork, and navigation — with lessons that translate directly to club racing as well as offshore passages. Will also reflects on fear, endurance, and the realities of racing days or weeks from help.Looking ahead, Will discusses his ultimate ambition: the Vendée Globe. He talks candidly about the challenge of funding a campaign, balancing life and family, and chasing the dream of becoming the first non-French winner of the race.A sharp, honest look at modern ocean racing and the mindset required to compete at the highest level.

Today we speak with renowned sailing fitness coach Harry Legum, founder of Annapolis Sailing Fitness and a pioneer of sailing-specific physical training. With decades of experience working with everyone from club racers to Olympic gold medallists and America’s Cup teams, Harry explains why effective sailing fitness goes far beyond strength, focusing instead on movement quality, balance, agility, endurance, and mental resilience.Harry shares how understanding a sailor’s motivation, building grit, and training the mind under fatigue are critical to performing well in chaotic racing situations. He discusses how elite sailors prepare differently, how club racers can realistically adopt many of the same habits, and why simple activities like walking, biking, and basic strength work can significantly improve performance, recovery, and safety on board.  Packed with practical advice, personal stories, and humour, this conversation offers clear takeaways for sailors of all levels looking to sail faster, recover better, and stay in the game longer.

Chris Alexander is one of the most consistently dominant one-design sailors in the U.S., with major wins across the VX One and Melges 15 fleets. But his success isn’t built on talent alone — it’s rooted in deep understanding, curiosity, and an ability to stay ahead of the learning curve.In this episode of Sail Faster, Chris breaks down how feel, rig tune, and mindset intersect to create real speed. From growing up sailing broken boats in Florida, to discovering the VX One and pushing tuning boundaries, to winning championships after months away from the fleet, Chris shares how he thinks about boats, wind, starts, and performance.We dive into managing leeway, pinching in big fleets, reading puffs on the water, extending waterline upwind, transferring skills between classes, and why imagination beats visualization when it comes to mental prep. Chris also tells the full story of an extraordinary comeback — going from 9th to 1st on the final day of the VX One North Americans.This is an episode packed with technical insight, practical philosophy, and honest reflections from a sailor who keeps things simple — and stays fast.

My guest today is my good friend Angelo Guarino — aeronautical engineer, US Sailing Regional Judge, J/105 sailor, and one of the most analytical, hard-working racers in Annapolis. Angelo didn’t grow up sailing. He started racing in his 30s, got hooked instantly, and has spent the years since  climbing steadily up a fiercely competitive one-design fleet. In this episode we talk about:How he identifies whether problems come from the boat, the skipper, or the crewWhy obsessing over the basics — clean bottom, fair foils, proper weight placement — changed everythingHis “maniac” philosophy of small, continuous improvementsWhat it takes to build and retain a loyal, friendly, high-performing crewWhy feel, groove, and helm balance matter more than chasing a number on a heel gaugeThe moment his boat went into “elevator mode” — and how he now aims for that on purposeWhether you race in a one-design fleet or PHRF, Angelo’s approach is full of practical takeaways and thoughtful insights. He’s humble, funny, generous with his knowledge, and seriously dedicated to going faster — without ever losing the joy of sailing with friends

in this quick episode, racing sailor and engineering student Odey Hariri joins Pete to share the story behind SailTalks, the new digital whiteboard that’s transforming how sailors learn, coach, collaborate, and even present protests. Inspired by the classic magnetic model-boat boards, SailTalks brings all the same clarity — but with animations, saved lessons, collaborative editing, and the ability to run it straight from your phone. Odey explains how he built the tool, how teams and coaches are already using it, and why it can be a total game-changer for briefing crews, teaching rules, and preparing for regattas — all accessible on desktop or mobile. Odey also reveals surprising use cases, including virtual protest rooms and tactical debriefs that actually make sense to the whole crew.  If you’re a visual learner, a coach, or just someone who wants to stop drawing courses on a wet deck with a finger, this episode is for you.Listeners of SailFaster also get a special discount code for premium features (note this is not a paid sponsored episode or advertising)

In this episode, I’m joined by multi-time champion John Loe, a standout Star and J/70 racer, for a candid look at how top sailors choose events, prepare for them, and keep getting faster.John explains how he targets the right regattas, builds focused training blocks, and uses intensive skill work—like expert-led downwind training—to unlock real gains. He shares how to develop a crew that trims with intent in changing conditions, and why late starters can still accelerate with deliberate practice.We also dig into U.S. sailing culture: the talent drain toward pro sailing, the challenges of the Olympic pathway, and why time-on-water sets winning programs apart. John offers an insider’s view on SailGP’s American struggles and the structural advantages other nations leverage.A sharp, insightful episode on preparation, coaching, regatta strategy, and the craft of sailing faster—packed with lessons for anyone looking to move up the fleet.

TP52 World Champion navigator Sara Stone returns to SailFaster to unpack the art and science of high-performance racing. From navigating Quantum Racing / American Magic TP52 to leading teams through intense offshore and inshore campaigns, Sara shares how precision, calm, and communication drive results. She talks mental performance, leadership, and how to make smart decisions under pressure—on and off the water.  A great listen!🎧 Insight, discipline, and a dash of scientific curiosity from one of sailing’s sharpest minds.

Today we're talking to Brian Swingly, a mental performance and executive coach who specializes in helping sailors and high-performing teams enhance their focus, resilience, and decision-making skills. Brian shares insights from his own sailing journey, the importance of mindset in competitive sailing, and how effective communication can improve team dynamics. He discusses common mental barriers like negative self-talk and imposter syndrome, and offers practical strategies for mental preparation and recovery from mistakes on the race course. The conversation emphasizes the significance of setting intentions and maintaining balance in life and sailing performance.

Pete sits down with Kelly Holthus, a junior at Tulane University, All-American sailor, and veteran of five Transpac races aboard BadPak, skippered by his father Tom Holthus. Kelly shares what it’s like growing up in a California sailing family, the lessons he’s taken from college racing, and how he helped organize a youth-driven crew for the 2023 Transpac.From flying spinnakers just 31 hours into the race, to leading bow in the black of night, to pulling together a team of college-age sailors and their parents, Kelly reflects on preparation, decision-making, and the thrill of offshore racing. The conversation covers the unique energy of a younger crew, the grit required offshore, and the payoff of winning Division 1 as the fastest monohull under 60 feet.  BadPak’s team were: Tom Holthus, Artie Means, Samantha Gardner (Tulane ’27),  Hartwell Jordan, Jeffrey Peterson (Georgetown ’25), Jon Gardner, Matt Smith, Cooper Smith (Cal Maritime ’24), Kelly Holthus (Tulane ’27), Ryan MazellaIf you’re curious about what it takes to prepare for and succeed in one of the world’s great ocean races, this episode is full of insider stories and lessons for sailors of all levels.

Bert and Marilyn Busser, the husband-and-wife team behind the J/42 Allegiant, share what it takes to compete in some of the toughest offshore races on the East Coast—from Annapolis to Newport to Marblehead to Halifax. In this conversation, they open up about the highs and lows of racing, the endurance and mindset needed for multi-day passages, and how they prepare their boat and crew year-round for safety and performance. They also talk about the unique dynamics of racing as a couple, building a loyal crew, and their ambitions for future challenges..👉 Learn more about Allegiant at allegiancesailing.com 👉 Explore the Annapolis to Bermuda Race at bermudaoceanrace.com

What does it take to win The Ocean Race and then step up to lead U.S. Sailing? In this episode, we talk with offshore legend Charlie Enright — skipper of 11th Hour Racing Team, the first American crew ever to win the race.Charlie shares how his obsession with sailing carried him from dinghies on Narragansett Bay to the gales of the Southern Ocean. He reflects on lessons of endurance, trust, and building world-class teams — including how to handle setbacks and bounce back stronger.We dive into the craft of racing faster offshore: preparation, culture, accountability, and the mindset that separates good from great. Charlie also opens up on his new role at U.S. Sailing, where he’s driving change in how America develops sailors and reconnects with its Olympic potential.Whether you’re campaigning offshore or racing on Wednesday nights, Charlie’s insights on resilience, leadership, and team culture will give you plenty to chew on!

In this episode of Sailfaster, we’re joined by Sweta Shervegar — one of India’s most accomplished sailors and a silver medalist at the 2018 Asian Games in the 49erFX. Sweta shares her journey from starting out with the Sea Cadets to competing on the international stage, and how she balances her life as both a professional sailor and a medical doctor. At the heart of our conversation is the role of mindset in sailing: Sweta opens up about the power of mental preparation, resilience, and focus, not only in her own racing but also in how she coaches the next generation of young sailors. Her passion, clarity, and commitment to the sport shine through in every word.

In this episode of Sailfaster, we delve into the fast-paced and surprisingly sophisticated world of radio-controlled yacht racing. Our guests, Len Bose and Dan Shier, give us a guided tour of the sport and the dedicated community keeping this unique branch of the sport alive and well. We discuss how these miniature craft deliver all the tactical intrigue of their full-sized cousins, the precision and skill needed to get to the front of the fleet, and why none other than sailing legend Ken Read has become an enthusiastic supporter. Whether you’re looking for a fresh way to hone your racecraft or simply enjoy hearing from passionate sailors pushing boundaries, this episode offers a glimpse into a captivating corner of competitive sailing.

In this episode of SailFaster, Pete Boland talks with Vakaros Events Director Doug Wake about how RaceSense is transforming race starts with GPS precision and automatic OCS calls—no pinging needed. Top sailors Steve Hunt and Morgan Trubovich share how the system boosts confidence, reduces risk, and helps teams train smarter by removing guesswork. Already used in elite fleets like the TP52s, Star Worlds, and Charleston Race Week, RaceSense is helping both pros and amateurs make better decisions on the line.

We’re back from an extended break with a fresh run of Sailfaster episodes—and we’re kicking things off with something a little different. This special compilation brings together insights from five of the sharpest minds in the sport: Luke Lawrence, Tom Burnham, Kristen Robinson, Scott Nixon, and Steph Roble.  Together, they break down one of the most decisive moments on the racecourse: the windward mark rounding. From final approach strategy to mark-rounding choreography, from the often-overlooked offset leg to the all-important exit, each guest shares practical, hard-won wisdom from years at the top.  Whether you’re clawing for inches or chasing boatlengths, this episode is packed with expert tips to help you convert upwind gains into a commanding downwind launch.

Here's the second part of my chat with Luke Lawrence, in which we dive into a masterclass on racecourse strategy and mindset.  We began with Luke's thoughts on a systems-based approach to improvement and ended with a deep discussion on upwind strategy options, successfully rounding the upwind mark and then downwind strategy and tactics.  As always, he's an excellent coach and an entertaining guest.  Audio is a bit dodgy, sorry, but hopefully after a bit you won't even notice...

This episode is a little different… and, I admit, a little self-indulgent.To mark Father’s Day, I’ve handed over the mic to a special guest: my son Jamie. He turns the tables and interviews me — about sailing, podcasting, and whatever else he felt like asking on the day.  We talk about what I've learned from 50 episodes, as well as looking back to teaching windsurfing on Greek beaches while at university, and how that eventually led to a sunny afternoon on San Francisco Bay with the person soon to become his mom, and other stuff.So if you’re here for the usual expert advice and elite racing tips… maybe skip this one. But if you’re curious about the person behind Sailfaster, or just in the mood for a bit of Father’s Day fun, join us.  And happy Father's Day....

In this powerful in-person conversation, professional sailor Luke Lawrence returns to Sailfaster to share his extraordinary journey — from burnout to balance, and from racing hard to racing smart. Speaking from Pete’s dining room in Washington, D.C., Luke opens up about the mindset, mechanics, and mental resilience required at the top levels of the sport.We talk about:How Luke learned to become a “fact-based robot” and shut out distractionsHis recent pro sailing season across Stars, Etchells, J/70s, and superyachtsTactical and technical tips for starts, laylines, mark roundings, and game planningHis candid battle with addiction — and how sobriety transformed his sailingThe lessons he brings to coaching and how to reset a team after mistakesThis is a deep, wide-ranging conversation about performance, preparation, personal growth, and the joy of mastering the fundamentals. Connect with Luke:Instagram: @lukelawrence13Coaching & pro inquiries: 772-260-2437

Here’s part two of my chat with J70 expert Patrick Wilson, in which, we dive into the craft of raceboat preparation. Known for his sharp eye and hands-on approach, Patrick shares how a childhood fascination with boat repair led to launching Next Level Boatworks, one of the top one-design prep shops in the U.S.We talk about keel work, sanding secrets, the quirks of J/70 production, and why boat prep is really about eliminating variables. Patrick also reflects on perfectionism, the psychological edge of a well-prepped boat, and why he’s passionate about sharing knowledge—even with DIYers.Whether you’re prepping for your first regatta or your 500th, or just curious what makes a boat fast, this episode has tons of advice and behind-the-scenes insight from one of the most trusted names in the game.

Today’s guest is one of the most quietly influential sailors on the J/70 circuit—Patrick Wilson.  Whether it’s Midwinters, North Americans, or the Bacardi series, if you’ve been following top-tier J/70 racing over the last few years, chances are you’ve seen Patrick’s name near the top of the results sheet—often as part of some of the most respected and well-run programs in the fleet. Patrick has a reputation not just for his trimming skills and consistency under pressure, but for the calm, collaborative way he helps elevate everyone around him. He’s sailed with teams like Catapult, Black Mamba, and Stampede, working with legends like Victor Diaz de Leon, Jud Smith, and Bruno Pasquinelli. Today, in Part 1 of our chat, we’ll dig into how he prepares, what he looks for on the racecourse, and why great communication might just be the most underrated skill in the sport.    In Part 2 which I’ll publish in a bit, we dive into his raceboat preparation business.

We’re back with Part 2 of my conversation with Steve Hunt, whose first episode was one of our most downloaded ever—no surprise, given his clear, practical take on the art of racing.  In this episode, we dig into the details: sail trim, heel angles, faster tacks, and sharper starts. It’s packed with insights from one of the best in the game.  Don’t forget the special Bonus for Sailfaster listeners: Get 30% off Steve’s premium coaching content at stevehuntsailing.com using the code Sailfaster30.

Racing sailboats can be cold, wet, and humbling—but also exhilarating, joyful, and life-changing. In this episode of Sail Faster, we explore how to start racing later in life, even if you didn’t grow up around boats. Host Pete chats with three experienced sailors—Beth Crabtree (SpinSheet), Jayne Durden (Sailing Happy Place, Commodore of Herrington Harbour Sailing Association), and Heidi Frist (J/30 class president)—about their own journeys into the racing world, and the advice they give to beginners. From joining a crew to skippering your own boat, from building confidence to packing a cooler, this conversation is full of honest insights, laughs, and practical tips for anyone curious about getting into sailboat racing.

In this episode, world-class sailor and coach Steve Hunt shares hard-earned lessons from his career — from his early days sailing in Virginia to competing as tactician on TP52 Wizard. Steve opens up about the intense learning curve of big boat racing, the importance of preparation, and how even small adjustments in sail trim and decision-making can have huge impacts on performance. He dives deep into starting techniques, teamwork, mental preparation, and why trusting your instincts is just as important as trusting the instruments. Whether you’re racing dinghies or grand prix boats, Steve’s advice will help you think faster, sail smarter, and chase your best results yet.

Special Edition presented in partnership with the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show:  In this special sponsored episode of Sailfaster, we’re setting course for City Dock, Annapolis, to give you an inside look at the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show, happening April 25–27.  First, we sit down with Mary Ewenson, president of Annapolis Boat Shows, to get the scoop on everything to expect at this year’s show—from exciting new boat debuts to can’t-miss seminars, hands-on classes, family-friendly fun, and more.  Then, we spotlight two standout boats you’ll find at the show: the BirdyFish, an innovative foiling dinghy making waves, and the beloved Flying Scot, a true classic with lasting appeal. Settle in for this exclusive preview of one of spring’s biggest sailing events!

In part two of my conversation with Ken Read — President of North Sails, multi-time world champion, and one of the most respected figures in sailing — we dive into some great America’s Cup stories (including more Dennis Conner gold), his advice on raceboat preparation and priorities, and his bold vision for transforming regattas into something more fun, efficient, and family-friendly. We pick up the conversation with Ken sharing thoughts on his all-time favourite boats to drive.

What separates the best sailors from the rest? In this episode, Ken Read—multi-time world champion and President of North Sails—shares the mindset, habits, and hard-won lessons that fuel real improvement—on club lines and world stages alike. From the power of curiosity to the pain of lost championships, Ken opens up about his journey through America's Cups and Volvo Ocean Races, his obsession with learning, the power of the speed loop, and how to truly feel the boat. Whether you’re racing a Tuesday night series or dreaming of an offshore campaign, this is a masterclass in how to get better—one decision, one sail, and one shift at a time.

In this episode Pete interviews fellow Brit and offshore sailor Dr Deborah Fish, Commodore of the Royal Ocean Racing Club, on the challenges of long-distance yacht racing. Deb shares some great strategies for staying positive and managing risk, and the art and science of balancing boat speed with smart navigation in double-handed racing. Deb also discusses teamwork, communication, and resource management in multi-day races.  You'll also hear about the unique challenges of the Three Peaks Yacht Race and her reflections on past experiences, including the Fastnet and Dream Cup.  And Deb reveals her bucket list race - the 750-mile Race to Alaska!  A really interesting episode with one of the top offshore racers!

In Part 2 of my conversation with champion sailor Stephanie Roble, we dive into race strategy, and teamwork on the racecourse. She shares how she simplifies complex conditions, breaks the course into key sections, what decisions she makes approaching the windward mark and how she sets up for the start. We also talk mental focus, risk assessment, and her top advice for sailors.  An episode packed with great insights! “You give power to what you focus on. If you’re thinking about what’s going wrong, you’re not thinking about how to win.”

In Part 1 of my chat with two-time Olympian, Stephanie Roble, we discuss her techniques for mental preparation, visualization, and pre-race routines. We’ll also dive into starting strategy, boat handling drills, and decision-making under pressure, plus the intensity of an Olympic sailing program.  Steph’s an elite skiff and keelboat racer, with World, National, and North American Championship titles across multiple sailing classes.  The 2014 Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year, she partnered with lifelong friend Maggie Shea to pursue her Olympic dream, ultimately competing in two Olympics in the 49erFX Skiff.  A great discussion with Part 2 coming next!

In Part 2 of my chat with Jeff Johnstone, President of J/Boats, we dive into the art of getting the most out of your J/Boat on the racecourse. Jeff shares invaluable insights on optimising boat setup, crew coordination, and tuning techniques that can make all the difference in competition. From rig tuning and weight distribution to the importance of repetition and dialing-in manoeuvres, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for every racing sailor. Plus, we explore the philosophy behind J/Boats’ design and why performance and ease of handling are at the heart of every model. Whether you’re new to racing or looking for that extra edge, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Today I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Jeff Johnstone, President of J/Boats, to Sailfaster. If you’ve spent any time on the water, chances are you’ve sailed or raced on one of their iconic boats. From the game-changing J/24 to the latest J/99, J/9, and J/45, J/Boats has set the standard for speed, versatility, and pure sailing joy.  Jeff has been at the helm of J/Boats since 1988, continuing the Johnstone family’s legacy of innovation and excellence. Under his leadership, the brand remains at the forefront of performance sailing, making it faster, more thrilling, and accessible to sailors of all levels.In this first part of our chat, we take a deep dive into the J/boats design philosophy and process, we discuss the trends in performance sailing design, and how the different J/boat models came to be. And don’t miss Part 2, where Jeff will share his top tips for getting the most out of your J/Boat on the racecourse!So let’s crack on—here we go with Part 1!

In this episode we dive into a critical topic: safety at sea. I’m joined by John Schafer, founder of Ministry of Sailing, a platform dedicated to improving safety, training, and risk management for sailors of all levels, whether they’re involved in offshore racing, coastal cruising, or inshore sailing.  John’s a highly-experienced racing sailor and marine safety expert dedicated to enhancing safety standards across the sailing community.  He shares his insights on how to foster a culture of safety, the importance of man overboard drills and the oft-overlooked challenge of getting someone back onboard, the power of communication in emergencies and practical steps every sailor should take to stay prepared. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or stepping onto a race boat for the first time, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Learn how to transform your team into a cohesive unit, mitigate risks, and approach every sailing adventure with the right tools, training, and mindset 

Richard Hudson joins us from Australia to share his experience of December's challenging Hobart race.  A highly-experienced ocean racer, Richard shares what led up to their retirement from the race, how the Pretty Woman team executed a flawless night-time high-speed jibe in 30 knot winds, coping with dramatically- changing wind conditions, and making the critical decisions.  He also reflected on the emotional impact of retiring from the race and the lessons learned.

In this episode of Sailfaster, I’m delighted to welcome the brilliant Sara Stone, a professional sailor with an impressive career spanning offshore and inshore racing including TP52 Super Series and the America's Cup! From her early development at Oakcliff Sailing under the mentorship of the legendary Dawn Riley to her bold career transition from international public health, Sara’s journey is both inspiring and remarkable.We delve into her standout triumph in the 2022 Newport-Bermuda Doublehanded Return Race, her integral role in the Women’s America’s Cup with American Magic, and her thoughtful approach to preparation and teamwork. Sara shares her philosophy of embracing every opportunity with intention and her passion for advancing women in elite sailing—all while thriving in the high-pressure world of competitive racing.An insightful and inspiring conversation with one of sailing’s most thoughtful and accomplished athletes. Don’t miss it!

This week I sat down with Guillaume Seynhaeve—seasoned racer and accomplished helmsman—for an engaging conversation on the art of driving a keelboat. From mastering boat speed to simplifying race strategy, Guillaume eloquently shares invaluable insights gained from decades of sailing experience, including everything from semi-circumnavigations to competitive world championships.It's an episode I was really looking forward to, and it didn't disappoint!  We dive into starting line tactics, the importance of rig tuning, the concept of “feel” when helming, and why simplicity is often the key to success on the water. Guillaume’s passion and clarity make this episode a must-listen for sailors of all levels. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills or gain a fresh perspective on racing strategy, this conversation is packed with actionable advice and thoughtful philosophy. Join us for a fascinating masterclass on driving fast and smart!Note that my new studio needs to be optimised for sound...apologies if it's a bit boomy in places. [Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review—fair winds!]

This week, Scott Nixon came back to Sailfaster to chat about his winning run on TP52 "Fox" at the 2024 ORC World Championships.  Scott shares what it took to prepare for this event over four years, from nailing down teamwork and boat handling to bouncing back after losing wind instruments mid-race. We got into the nitty-gritty of sailing at the top level—how technology and instincts work together, why the TP52 class rules are always evolving, why you should focus on weaknesses, and why constant learning (and relearning!) is the secret to staying competitive.  Scott’s got some fantastic tips to up your game: the value of recording your progress, using local races as training grounds, and focusing on the fundamentals like heel angles and smooth boat handling. I really enjoyed the behind-the-scenes stories and practical advice; hope it inspires you to sail faster and smarter!

In this episode we dive into the inspiring journey of Maura Winston, London Calling’s tactician.  Maura grew up sailing in the picturesque waters of Rhode Island and began racing at an early age, moving later into Bermuda Cup match racing and J/24 and J/105 keelboat racing.  With her infectious enthusiasm for the sport, Maura shares how teamwork is at the heart of sailing success, as well as the importance of networking and finding the right team, proving that building connections is a vital skill for burgeoning keelboat racers!  We also chat about London Calling’s performance journey over the last two years, with Maura emphasizing how intentional practice and coaching elevates performance, with driving skills being an obvious game-changer for boat speed. Maura also offers refreshing advice: focus on the basics instead of getting bogged down by excessive data.  And how practice starts are the perfect way to boost confidence and get a solid read on that day’s racecourse.  Maura’s insights are practical and motivational, making I what I hope is a great listen!  

This episode features an engaging conversation with two-time Danish match racing champion Marie Klok Crump. She shares how a pivotal high school experience ignited her passion for match racing, propelling her to international rankings in just two years.  We explore the precision and intensity of match racing, the art of mastering chaos, and the crucial role of teamwork and communication in high-stakes competition. Marie offers sharp insights into pre-start tactics, mark roundings, and balancing speed with strategic control.   From staying calm under pressure to adapting in dynamic environments, this episode is packed with lessons for both sailors and anyone navigating fast-paced, high-stress situations!

Today we dive into the world of crewing with Quantum Sails’ John Rampe. We discuss what it takes to excel as a new crew member and the art of crewing including how to evolve your skills from the bow to the back of the boat. From the critical role of communication and preparation to the unique qualities that make a good skipper stand out in the eyes of the crew, John’s insights are both inspiring and practical.   We also found time to unpack what separates top-tier boats from the rest, from the point of view of its crew.  You'll also pick up on the power of teamwork, the joy of learning, and the sheer, infectious thrill of sailing fast boats...!

Tom Burnham, fresh off his America’s Cup experience with American Magic, joins us in the Sailfaster studio. With his extensive top-tier sailing experience, including five America’s Cup campaigns, "Supercoach" Tom has been a key asset to high-performance teams like Young America, Luna Rossa, Artemis Racing, and American Magic. In addition, Tom has also served as the head coach for the USA SailGP team and a part-time coach for Australia’s SailGP team.  He's a world champion with multiple TP52 World titles with Quantum Racing, an ISAF Match Racing Worlds title, and a Student Yachting World Cup.  In our conversation, we dive into the intricacies of the America’s Cup, key turning points that define regattas, teamwork, trust, team dynamics, and the resilience needed to succeed at the highest level. It’s a conversation you won’t want to miss!

Today’s guest is Chelsea Freas, a highly sought-after expert in weather and routing forecasts for sailors of all kinds—offshore racers, regatta competitors, cruisers, and even Olympians. She’s the founder of SeaTactics, offering marine weather solutions like weather routing, regatta forecasting, navigation, consulting, and education—check out www.sea-tactics.com - it includes some excellent free courses!Chelsea shares how she began her career in weather forecasting, the forecasting challenges she tackles and the sailors she supports. We’ll also dive into topics like wind shear, sea breezes, which racing locations are harder to forecast than others, and her favourite weather apps....  Fun fact: Chelsea is not only a competitive sailor herself but also a new mom!

We’re switching to offshore racing in the Southern Pacific/Australia for this episode!  Richard Hudson has racked up over 150 offshore races of 200 miles or more, including multiple Rolex Sydney-Hobart Races, 34 Sydney-Gold Coast Races, China Sea races, Hong Kong to Philippines, Hong Kong to Vietnam, the 600 mile New Caledonia Groupama Race and many more.  Richard is the owner of Farr 45 Pretty Woman, a proud Corinthian and a member of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club. He’s a winner of the Hobart race’s Corinthian division and Wild Rose division, as well as many podium finishes in IRC.  Richard was awarded Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s 2023 Ocean Veteran of the Year.   What makes Richard stand out is his emphasis on bringing younger sailors into the sport.   Pretty Woman’s crew blends deep offshore experience with younger sailors from the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, enabling many young sailors to experience offshore racing at its toughest. A fascinating discussion with a top ocean racing veteran!

Really enjoyed my conversation with top Chicago sailors George Simkins and Mark Fruin about the famous Mackinac Race.  With multiple podiums between them, you'll hear how they prepare their J111 and J105 for the race, how they think about routing decisions, dealing with tough conditions, avoiding the black flies, why sailing racing is worth investing time in, and finally how Sailfaster caused Mark to have an anxiety attack while flying to a wedding!  Lots to learn from this insightful, fascinating and funny discussion!