Trying to come to terms with the dark, cold months ahead with no great sailing on the near horizon? Do what Shana Bagley did and jump aboard an Open 60 with the only American to race solo three times around the world, longtime SA’er Brad Van Liew. There are precious few programs that offer what this one does, so check out BVL’s sitefor the latest availability for upcoming trips.
I have been having some "re-entry" issues after returning last summer from six months at sea. Racing in San Francisco Bay was just not enough. I rabidly followed Brad Van Liew's victories in the Velux 5 Oceans, so when I heard about his Summer Tour, I didn't waste a second to sign up for the chance to sail on an Open 60 with a legend - an American legend at that.
Americans are glaringly missing from the international solo racing scene. The more exposed we are to these amazing sailors and their sailboats, the more interest we can generate for an American fan base, American sponsors, and for American competitors. The Van Liew Summer Tour [and now the Winter Tour –ed] is a great way to increase that exposure and it will be amazing to be a part of it.
I am looking forward to improving my sailing skills, pushing my limits, seeing the brilliant stars from the middle of the ocean, and to spending time with an accomplished and respected solo racer. No deadlines, no ringing phones, just the elements and the sounds of the boat racing through the water. It just doesn't get much better than that, really.
NASA's Space Shuttle Program may be shut down, but rockets are still firing full blast on Le Pingouin! Lucky for me, I have a ticket to ride.
Shana
09/28/11
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