The Bubblewrap Generation

FORECAST – A strong wind warning is current.
Saturday until midnight: SW/S winds to 20/25 knots increasing to 20/30 knots in the eastern bay later tonight. Seas to 1.3 metres in open waters. Isolated
showers.
Sunday: SW/S winds 20/30 knots. Seas to 1.3 metres in open waters. Isolated showers eastern Bay.
Monday: S’ly winds 20/25 knots.
Tuesday: S/SE winds 20/30 knots.

When I was a kid, sailing in 20/25 knots was considered normal.  It was actually quite exciting. But now-a-days I am finding that kids just aren’t as eager to get out there in real pressure and take the challenge of hard racing head on.

So what has changed this perception that strong wind sailing isn’t an option??

Is it the parents?

Is it the race committee?

Or is it the fact that kids are so shelted in this day and age that we have created “The Bubblewrap Generation.” A generation of kids that live a protected life and kept out of harms way as best as possible.

I have scars and scratches all over me from racing when I was young and each injury indent brings back memories of yet another awesome experience on the water. Sure, there were times when stiches were required and even a trip to a hospital or two, however the sheer thrill and enjoyment of getting out there with the chance of extreme carnage was the drive to keep coming back each and every week.

Why is it that in today’s racing era the youth are less likely to hit the water in the event of high winds?

Could it be the rising insurance premiums? Or the risk involved with racing? If someone does hurt themselves who is to blame?

Think back to when you were young… Did you get out there regardless of the threats? Would you let your own kids do the same or are you a parent or believer who will shelter their child and emerge them into a state of worry and create another “Bubblewrap Generation” offspring.