Following the Sail for Gold Regatta in June I went home for 10 days of needed rest followed by my final training trip back to Weymouth on June 21st for 3 weeks.  My coach, Peter Wells, could not make it over, so I scheduled some training days with a Dutch coach, Casper Bouman – 2006 World Champion, 2008 Olympian.  We outlined a few key aspects to address.  The primary aspect we addressed was sailing outside of the harbor, as I demonstrated difficulties racing on the outer courses at the Sail for Gold regatta.  Additionally, we addressed some light air technique issues, starts and techniques in heavy air and big waves. 

The training camp was extremely productive.  Sailing is a unique sport in the sense, there is no “right” technique; however, you succeed by finding the technique and process that work for you.  In order to develop and perfect your abilities, it is crucial to be exposed to a variety of different ideas and practices.  This is exactly what the training camp with Casper offered.  I added a lot of value and experience to my program with an additional perspective.  I came home on July 9th for a short break.

Peaking:

The entire purpose of this season was to peak at the Olympic Games this summer.  I passed up peak performances at previous events this year in order to be fully prepared for the Games.  As of today, I am very happy with my current fitness and strength.  Additionally, I have been slowly losing weight over the past 4 weeks thus increasing my power to weight ratio – which is extremely important for windsurfers.  I have been diligent with continuing to utilize training programs that have worked for me in the past including: on the water training, mountain biking, interval training, yoga and gym work.  

Additionally, I wanted to extend a big thank you to Vega’s plant based products.  There products have helped me lose weight and train at a caloric deficit without sacrificing performance or recovery – thanks Vega! 

Going Forward:

I am leaving to London tonight from Newark airport with the US Olympic Sailing Team. We arrive in London tomorrow morning, where we will go through team processing and get all of our Olympic gear.  From what I am told – we are the first US team to go through processing.  We will spend one night at the Olympic Village in London, then bus down to Weymouth and for some additional training.  Finally, we will bus back to London on the 27th for the opening ceremony and head back to Weymouth on the 28th.  I am scheduled to race on the 31st, 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 7th (medal race).

From what I am told, there will be live streaming of our sailing events online – more info to come on the online viewing. 

My updates going forward will be more frequent, but much shorter.  In some instances they may be a few sentences and some pictures.

Thank You:

This is the last post that will include all of my sponsors and supporters below.  Per the International Olympic Committee, athletes are not allowed to endorse any of their sponsors between July 18th and August 15th.   My blog posts after the Games will include all of my sponsors and supporters. 

I would like to extend a very warm thank you to everybody who has supported me over the years.  Without your support, I would not be here today – heading off for the 2012 Olympic Games tonight.  I will be the only male competing in the RS:X class for the US; however, in actuality, there is an army of supporters and team members who played a significant role in my participation at the 2012 Games.  Finally, a very, very special thank you to my parents and family for their continual support, encouragement and loving care - I cant wait to share this experiencing with you in London!

I am can not wait to race and represent all of your dedication and graciousness over the past few years, in addition to the USA and Chicago.  Lets go get a Medal!