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How long have you been sailing and what classes do you compete in?

I started sailing on Toronto Island in 2008, and started racing in 2012. I grew up racing in Club 420s and skiffs, and then moved into collegiate racing at Queen’s University. I also did a fair bit of keelboat sailing, both on the club circuit and with the Queen’s Sailing Team.

What boats/classes do you sail?

I’ve been lucky enough to race in a wide variety of classes. I’ve raced the Club 420, collegiate 420 and FJ, 29er, 49er, various asymmetrical sport boats, J/24, Beneteau 36.7, and different keelboats in the 30-40 foot range. Recently I’ve started sailing some foiling boats, including the F101 and the Waszp.

What got you into the marine industry?

I started coaching in 2013, and continued up until I started working at North. My coaching career started with Club 420s, and I gradually moved into coaching 29ers and collegiate sailing for the Queen’s Sailing Team. I really got hooked on sailing when I started racing, and nothing beats working on the water. Sharing my love of the sport and helping others enjoy it as much as I do has always been hugely fulfilling for me.

What’s your favourite thing about sailing?

That’s a really tough question, because there’s just so much to love. I really enjoy the many different technical and athletic aspects of the sport, and the social side of things is a huge highlight as well. If I had to pick one though, I’d say that my favourite thing about sailing is how beautiful it is. The boats, the sails, the water, the sky, the whole scene is so aesthetically pleasing, and I have so many vivid memories of different boats, places and people that I’ve sailed with. Even on really bad days I’ve always been able to remind myself to take a step back and enjoy the view.

What are you most looking forward to with joining North Sails?

Working for North is a fantastic opportunity for me, and the part I’m most excited about is the people, on both sides of the business. I’m joining a highly knowledgeable and experienced team, and I want to learn as much as I can from the experts that make up this company. I’m also looking forward to working with our customers, learning from them and hopefully helping to improve their experience of the sport. I hope to do a lot of sailing while I’m here, and I can’t wait to see where this career will take me!

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