This month, I thought that we should cast some light on an area of transformation where we are doing very well, namely women’s sailing.

At the recent Tuzi Tekwini Ocean race, when I commented upon how friendly and integrated the women in the fleet were, I was asked: “So what’s the real reason you always sail with women?” I was a little surprised by the question! I had never given it any thought, nor did I realize that I was viewed as being different. It is just the way it has always been.

I was introduced to sailing by a girl. Initially, besides the obvious attraction, sailing with Gill was the only way I could get to the front of the fleet! Later, having two daughters meant that we always had girls on board – it was just the way we did it. But the question got me thinking about why Gill and I have often invited women to sail with us. I’ve been sailing with girls and ladies for at least the last 45 years. As sailing with women is a norm for me, I have lost sight of the intrinsic value of females as an integrated operational part of the team.

Why do we encourage women to sail with us?

While the obvious chauvinistic answers may include the food they so often bring and add to the aesthetic value, the truth is that a boat full of men often has a toxic masculine culture. Women are often peace makers but will speak “truth to power” when they are comfortable. They’re less inclined to feel the need to engage in testosterone-fuelled rivalry in mid-race. They also tend to bring the best out in men, my sons and I, in particular. Coarse vulgarity gives way to more mature banter with innuendo, and a culture of teamwork and camaraderie prevails. Women tend to learn to think with their heads rather than apply brute force.

But, perhaps the most important reason is this: Women tend to have good intuition and will say when they are feeling afraid. There’s a reason that the person who told the emperor about his invisible new clothes was not a man! Male pride often prohibits men from speaking up for fear of looking stupid or afraid, but they are often relieved when a woman speaks up. Such voiced concerns often result in less casualties and accidents – if the skipper listens to them, of course. As the women on the team’s experience and confidence grows, so their intuition becomes more valuable.

And, of course, women in our midst add to the vibrance of our sport. They facilitate the family component of our sport – possibly the single strongest retention factor that we have.

So, the next question is WHY would a woman want to go sailing? Besides the obvious joys of sailing, the life lessons and character development, there are, of course, many advantages for the women, whether single or as part of a family team. The camaraderie and adventure. The thirst to witness beauty in nature. In fact, all the same reasons that draw men to sailing, except for one particular and very important reason. The chance to compete on an equal footing. The opportunity to be equal in every sense.

And that leaves only one last question: why would a woman want to go sailing WITH YOU? Now that’s something for you to ruminate on!

We are really blessed to be involved in a pastime that accommodates, so easily, that which is often much more difficult in other aspects of our lives.

But, there is one tip that could save you from the wrath that lurks…. Never use the words “not insubstantial weight” and “weather rail” in the same sentence.

All this talk of equality, ironically delivered by a man to the men in our fleet. Now there is a thought!

Stay safe.
Michael.