I have always had a love for being on the water. Time always seemed to slip away in the current of the waves and all of my worries were left on land. The water gives me a place of serenity and happiness. A feeling of being completely at ease. Sailing gave me this outlet. The perfect way to escape all of my troubles and just focus all of my energy on the boat, as it soars through the rippling water. But I was not alone. I had a crew guiding me through every tack and jibe. Each member doing their job to make the boat sail fast against the other competitors. I am determined and fearless. I am a sailor.
I believe everyone needs something in their life that brings them true happiness. Whether it is a hobby, sport or a pass time. Sailing is all of these things to me and more. I have been sailing for a year and I fall in love with it every time I take that step from the dock onto the boat for another adventure. I'm leaving all of my troubles behind me. In my mind, it's just me and the water. A connection that will never be broken.
A relaxing ride in the early morning is peaceful, but a regatta (a race) always has my heart racing. All of the boats, ranging in different sizes, colors and shapes, racing against each other. Commands being yelled over the rushing of the waves as boats zip past each other. I am nervous right before every race, but at the sound of the horn, I am in full focus on what I need to do in order to sail to my fullest potential. Hiking out to gain speed and being ready to move at any sudden moment is crucial. I am not sailing for myself, I'm sailing for my crew. We are all working together to sail fast and beat out other opponents.
When the race is over, it's time for celebration. Whether it is hanging out on the water with coolers and good friends or back on land to feast after a long race, we are all thankful for our time spent at sea. We share stories of past experiences and what we hope for the future. I love getting to know all of the wonderful people I competed against. I learn from them and gain better skills I can use for the next regatta.
The sailors I have had the privilege of meeting, are some of the most wise and genuine people I know. They take risks and experience life to the fullest, as everyone should. Sailing is an adventure. A thrilling experience full of purpose. I found my escape to adventure the moment I took my first breath of sea air. I have a love for sailing and I will treasure every moment. I have learned that dreams set sail the moment you leave the shore. Sailing has challenged me to live life to the fullest. What challenges you?
