Why I believe in boats

by Carol Cronin
Whenever I push away from the shore, I take control of my own destiny. Any watercraft will do, but it’s vessels propelled by the wind that have taught me the most about life’s most valuable balancing acts: the need for both preparation and improvisation, confidence and humility. The importance of patience, self-reliance, communication. And, of course, vectors.

Just after college, a 21-day transatlantic taught me that all the spare parts in the world won’t fend off a storm. Almost twenty years later, I brought those life lessons to the 2004 Olympics and won two races. (I also ate a lot of humble pie on the no good, very bad, windiest day.)

Boats teach patience. When the sea breeze fades off to nothing during a summer evening sail, I might get back to shore after sunset—and that’s just fine. – Full report