There exists a very bizarre thing that has been a constant phenomenon in my life. I make vehement proclamations that I’ll never do something, and then next thing you know, I am doing that very thing!!! Two of those examples come from my sailing life. I would tell anyone who would listen that offshore sailing wasn’t for me….”I have no desire to do that”. “I’m just a day sailor” (or at the most, a Catalina voyager). Well, we all know how that turned out! The other thing I would always say is that “I am not a racer”. Somehow I didn’t count PSSA races and then later the SHTP in this statement, mostly because I was out there doing those things for the adventure of it, not the racing aspect.

Well, I have finally admitted that I am indeed a racer, and all of a sudden find myself campaigning Cassiopeia in not only PSSA races, but the sunset series, and the Berger Stein series. I am sure there will be more, because I have definitely gotten bitten by a bug, and I cannot stop the train. I suppose it is in my blood (thanks Pop!), and I cannot deny it anymore!

We have participated in two races in the sunset series so far, and I could not be happier with how we are doing. Our team is amazing, and just as I had hoped, we all bring a variety of experience and know-how to the table. The common thing we share is a desire to support each other in being our best in each moment. There is an air of enthusiasm, mutual support and encouragement each time we all meet, that sets the tone for a positive experience around the race course! It is a safe place for us all to learn and try new things, and I do believe we are all benefiting from that. It feels so good on our boat, that I told them after our last race that I was falling just a little in love with all of them!

Last week, we actually took 1st in our class, and I am excited to see what this week holds for us! I am so proud of this spirited yet humble group of women who grace the decks of my Cassiopeia! As with most things I proclaim I will never do, and then do anyway……I feel that something important is brewing here. For me, I know it is a big shift in perspective and a huge opportunity for growth as a skipper, sailor and teammate!!

Thank you my lovely badass ladies!