Reading Palms…

As a sailor we go through pain and suffering to achieve our ultimate aim of winning a championship. Crossing that finish line in first place is the goal we strive for regardless of the pain and suffering we endure.

I happened to stumble across some palms after sailing yesterday belonging to an enthusiastic Radial sailor who competes in almost every Laser regatta on the East Coast of Australia.

This young sailor is strong. This young sailor is tough. This young sailor hikes and holds on tight during every race hoping his endurance levels maintain consistency right up until the last tack and when the whistle blows.

As he munched on the oily carbohydrate feast after racing I couldn’t help but notice his rather odd looking hands. Unlike the rest of his sun drenched features, the palms of his hands seemed to belong to that of another. They just didn’t match his tanned complexion and looked extremely exhausted.

The torn and blistery skin was a pale white with prominent salty stains and wrinkles, a soft, yet rough surface which would crumble if manual labour were called upon. These sailors’ hands were the victim of a 20 knot southerly and a mainsheet that took no prisoners.

Sailing is more than just a relaxing time afloat. It’s a sport of endurance, flexibility, strength, courage and mind games all whilst tasting the salt and feeling the wind in your hair…

Actually, it’s more like salt in your eyes and wind chaffing your lips whilst getting serious suntan lines on your face, arms and legs. It’s a classy sport where all competitors end up multi-coloured, blistery, salty, and wrinkly.

But we love it…!