As a child I dreamed of sailing an ocean racer, especially in the Withbread Round the World Race. Unfortunately, it did not happen at the time. Mainly because as a little kid I had no idea how one could ever get on an ocean racer. That is different now; recently I was invited for an Ocean Race Experience. That was unforgettable and my childhood dream came back to life.
Unfortunately for me to become an ocean racer is not possible nowadays with my family and my busy job. When I understood from Hans that I could participate in shorter races, my mind was instantly made up. The big plan; participating in the Rolex Fastnet Race 2021, prior to the race train 6 weekends, participate in a qualifying race and get my Offshore Personal Survival certification to be able to team up and race with the toptalents during the Rolex Fastnet Race in 2021. I have been out there for three weekends now. And what a blast it has already been! The first weekend someone on board made an action movie. I think I’ve watched it 30 times myself and forwarded it to pretty much all my friends and family.
Many who also like to join now. The training days have since only been more fun, I get to know the team of toptalents much better and I also feel more at ease on board. Step by step I learn the different positions on board and get ready for the Rolex Fastnet Race 2021. To experience the interaction of the team is very special. The interaction on a ship with enormous forces, and where one small mistake has major consequences. And a young team that is being accurately trained by Hans to sail the races I used to dream of.
A team that continuously pushes itself and the boat further and beyond. I am a fanatic athlete, but I have never done topsport. Being able to sail this way, I make my dream come true and I get closer to topsport than I could ever imagine. If you like a challenge and are in the mood for an epic adventure, I highly recommend to train for and participate in the Rolex Fastnet Race. See you onboard of the BOUdragon