Where experience meets a spirit of discovery.

Sailing brings together much of what fascinates me: the power of the elements, the interaction of different people and the question of how to find a course in changing conditions.

It all began at school. A teacher passionate about sailing took us onto the water and showed us what sailing has to do with physics, navigation and teamwork. What began as a school subject became a lasting part of my life.

The fascination of the Twelves

For me, Twelves are more than classic yachts. In their respective eras, 12 Metre boats represented the pursuit of the best solution. Design, craftsmanship and sporting ambition meet in them.

For many years I had the privilege of racing these yachts. Together with my crews, I became world and European runner-up and European champion. Behind those achievements are experience, trust and the shared work of many people on board.

What drives development?

I am fascinated by the inventive spirit behind these boats. Every era has its own possibilities and limits. And there are always people who want to discover what lies beyond them.

That curiosity accompanies me in my work, too. I am interested not only in where we are today, but in what might emerge next. What can be taken further? What ideas become possible when experience and new technology come together?

The sea and great challenges change your perspective

My first Atlantic crossing remains a special experience. The vastness of the sea, changing constellations and a storm showed me early on how much a crew can overcome together. They also taught me respect for the elements and my own limits.

At sea, your perspective on what truly matters changes. Nature sets the conditions. How we respond is something we decide together on board.

Every regatta brings new questions

Major offshore races such as the Fastnet Race appeal to me as much as the Copa del Rey. I love sailing a full season of regattas with a crew on a Twelve, in some years culminating in a world championship. I enjoy a local race on familiar waters just as much.

Every regatta has its own character and calls for attention and good teamwork. On the racecourse, I am fascinated by the search for a better solution and the instinct for the right moment. Offshore, there is also the challenge of staying clear-headed over longer periods and in difficult conditions.

In the end, it is always the people on board who make the difference. Different skills, experiences and personalities can form a crew that achieves more together than any of its members could alone.