San Diego, May 13, 2026
My 66th year closed out strong with a win in the Etchells World Championship on Friday. Against 76 teams James Mayo, Ben Lamb and myself delivered a convincing win. The total points of our last 5 races was just 11. Due to an injury to Richard Clarke, I joined James and Ben for just 12 days of sailing prior to the first race. It looks like we came together as a team just in time.
I have long admired the Etchells class. I am honored to have raced against the very talented field in San Diego this year and to be amongst the legends of sailing who have previously won the Etchells World Championship!
I also had the privilege of being mentored by Victor Kovalenko, aka The Medal Maker, for the last three weeks. Victor is not only a great coach but a first class human. It was my honor to meet Victor and work with him as have some many Olympic champions.
Richard Clarke and Andy Green rounded out a very strong team that left no stone unturned in the quest for a three peat for James Mayo. I was just fortunate to be along for the ride!