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Lessons Learned with Christian Williams
Tune in to the fourteenth episode of the Lessons Learned Podcast series by UK Sailmakers, hosted by Brendan Huffman and featuring special guest Christian Williams. Listen as he recounts his 1979 Fastnet race experience, sailing trips to Bermuda and Hawaii, and insights into towering waves, sargassum weed, books, and jazz.
Williams, a former Washington Post editor and investigative reporter during the Watergate era, has also created two TV dramas and authored five books, including a Ted Turner biography. Currently residing in Southern California, Williams is an accomplished sailor and a satisfied UK Sailmakers Los Angeles customer. His boat, THELONIUS II, an Ericson 381, has taken him on multiple solo voyages to Hawaii and back, and on many more adventures.
In the 1979 Fastnet race, Williams crewed for Ted Turner aboard the winning boat, TENACIOUS, facing Force 10 conditions in one of yacht racing's largest disasters, where only 86 out of 303 boats finished and 18 sailors perished.
You can watch more about Christian Williams' incredible life experiences, and sailing insights on his UA-cam channel: ChristianWilliamsYachting
Chapters:
0:00 Lessons Learned Intro
00:50 A Love for Ericson Yachts
3:46 Cruising to Sunny Destinations
5:40 Sailing to Bermuda vs. Hawaii
8:27 The “Fair Weather Gale” Phenomenon
9:35 Managing Squalls
11:50 The Allure of Singlehanding
13:50 Working with UK Sailmakers Los Angeles
15:36 Sailing and Jazz
17:06 The 1979 Fastnet with Ted Turner’s TENACIOUS
21:43 Inspirational Books
23:45 Christian Williams on UA-cam
23:52 Offshore Preparations
26:44 Closing
THELONIUS Image Credits: Christian Williams
1979 Fastnet Image Credits: ESPN / Gary Jobson
Like and subscribe to the UK Sailmakers UA-cam channel to be notified when more great content from our channel is uploaded. The Lessons Learned Podcast is also available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.
UK Sailmakers is proud to have the Lessons Learned Podcast Series recognised as the #1 Sailing Podcast in the UK by FeedSpot.
Переглядів: 373

Відео

Lessons Learned Getting Into GOOD TROUBLE
Переглядів 2442 місяці тому
Tune in to the thirteenth episode of the Lessons Learned Podcast series by UK Sailmakers, hosted by Brendan Huffman and featuring special guest Marie Rogers, a trailblazing figure in the world of offshore racing and advocate for diversity in sailing. As the skipper of the Alan Andrews-designed 56-foot sailboat, GOOD TROUBLE, in the 2023 Transpacific Race, Marie Rogers is a force to be reckoned ...
Lessons Learned as Women In Performance Sailing
Переглядів 1764 місяці тому
Tune in to the twelfth episode of the Lessons Learned Podcast series by UK Sailmakers, featuring Mia Karlsson and Nikki Henderson, two of the amazing women who lead offshore passages with 59º North. In this episode, Mia and Nikki talk about their experiences as women in performance sailing, the unique challenges in the industry, and a promising future for more diversity in the sport. Mia discus...
Lessons Learned on Asymmetrical Spinnaker Design
Переглядів 1,3 тис.5 місяців тому
Tune in to the eleventh episode of the Lessons Learned Podcast series by UK Sailmakers, featuring lead sail designer, Pat Considine from UK Sailmakers Chicago. In this episode, Pat answers a series of questions about what considerations go into designing a custom asymmetrical spinnaker. Pat delves into key measurements used for spinnaker design including the luff, leech and mid girth (SMG). He ...
Lessons Learned Shorthanded Sailing
Переглядів 6376 місяців тому
Tune in to the tenth episode of the Lessons Learned Podcast series by UK Sailmakers, featuring Stefan Voss of UK Sailmakers Germany. In this episode, Stefan explores the growing popularity of shorthanded sailing in Germany and shares his tips and tales for sailors who are keen to try it out for themselves. Stefan dives into the specifics for how he provisions and prepares for shorthanded sailin...
Lessons Learned Sailing Singlehanded Transpac
Переглядів 9158 місяців тому
Tune in to the ninth episode of the Lessons Learned Podcast series by UK Sailmakers, featuring Brendan Huffman as he shares his journey competing in his second Singlehanded Transpacific Race aboard his Santa Cruz 33, SIREN. In this episode, Brendan reflects on the insights gained from his nine races to Hawaii, discussing the lessons learned, and how he enhanced his performance for the second Si...
Lessons Learned Passage Making
Переглядів 37511 місяців тому
Tune in to Episode Eight of the Lessons Learned Podcast series by UK Sailmakers featuring Tripp Brower, Captain of SV RESILIENCE and Executive Director of the non-profit Apparent Winds. In this Episode, Tripp discusses his Lessons Learned passage making as he circumnavigates the globe, working with marine researchers and sharing stories of environmental and cultural preservation through film. P...
What is the Barging
Переглядів 9 тис.Рік тому
Barging is the most common foul that happens on the starting line, yet there is no “anti-barging” rule in the Racing Rules of Sailing. Barging is when an inside windward boat takes mark room at a starting mark. And why isn’t the boat entitled to room? That is clearly stated in the preamble to Part C of Section 2 of the rule book. It states, “Section C rules do not apply at a starting mark surro...
Doublehanded Spinnaker Peeling Technique
Переглядів 3,2 тис.Рік тому
This spring, I created a doublehanded social distancing racing series so that sailboat racing could restart safely. An unforeseen result is that my long-time friend and crewmember Gerard Girstl and I found that we really like sailing my 40-footer doublehanded. Now we have to work on our boat-handling and sail-handling techniques to do it better . A month ago, we finished second in a 45-mile dou...
How to Use the Internal Velcro Batten Pocket
Переглядів 602Рік тому
The standard racing racing batten pocket closes with internal Velcro since it results in a smooth finish. This video shows how to use the internal Velcro pocket.
Using Tie In Batten Pockets
Переглядів 225Рік тому
The tied-in batten pocket is the most secure method for keeping battens in their pockets. It is a must of serious offshore racing and cruising. This video shows how to use the pocket.
Jib Reaching With Outboard Leads by UK Sailmakers
Переглядів 9 тис.Рік тому
Jib Reaching With Outboard Leads by UK Sailmakers
Top Down Furlers Explained
Переглядів 7 тис.Рік тому
UK Sailmakers explains how Top Down spinnaker furlers work.
The Letter Box Takedown
Переглядів 6 тис.Рік тому
How to do a Letterbox Spinnaker Takedown: the safest way to douse a spinnaker offshore.
UK Sailmakers How To Center Your RIg
Переглядів 3,4 тис.Рік тому
UK Sailmakers How To Center Your RIg
Learning the Singlehanded Gybe
Переглядів 4,5 тис.Рік тому
Learning the Singlehanded Gybe
Leech and Foot Lines
Переглядів 2,2 тис.Рік тому
Leech and Foot Lines
Proper Pit Procedures
Переглядів 1,8 тис.Рік тому
Proper Pit Procedures
Leading a Staysail sheet
Переглядів 3 тис.Рік тому
Leading a Staysail sheet
Late Main Jibe
Переглядів 5 тис.Рік тому
Late Main Jibe
How To Do a Mexican Takedown Also Called the Kiwi Drop
Переглядів 17 тис.Рік тому
How To Do a Mexican Takedown Also Called the Kiwi Drop
Cruising Spinnaker Dousing Tricks
Переглядів 275Рік тому
Cruising Spinnaker Dousing Tricks
The Cruising Spinnaker AtoZ
Переглядів 752Рік тому
The Cruising Spinnaker AtoZ
Dousing the Cruising Spinnaker
Переглядів 3,2 тис.Рік тому
Dousing the Cruising Spinnaker
UK Sailmakers SOLAS Grade Signaling Flares
Переглядів 173Рік тому
UK Sailmakers SOLAS Grade Signaling Flares
UK Sailmakers Quick Stop Upwind
Переглядів 1,4 тис.Рік тому
UK Sailmakers Quick Stop Upwind
UK Sailmakers The Man OverBoard Quick Stop With Spinnaker II
Переглядів 1,7 тис.Рік тому
UK Sailmakers The Man OverBoard Quick Stop With Spinnaker II
UK Sailmakers The Man OverBoard Quick Stop With Spinnaker
Переглядів 2,1 тис.Рік тому
UK Sailmakers The Man OverBoard Quick Stop With Spinnaker
UK Sailmakers Using Storm Sails
Переглядів 890Рік тому
UK Sailmakers Using Storm Sails
UK Sailmakers Care of Inflatable Life Vests
Переглядів 249Рік тому
UK Sailmakers Care of Inflatable Life Vests

КОМЕНТАРІ

  • @TracyWilliams-c8n
    @TracyWilliams-c8n 7 днів тому

    Brilliant, and not because I know the guy.

  • @chrisnegele6875
    @chrisnegele6875 8 днів тому

    Really worth the time I spent watching. Thanks

  • @darrellhanks6459
    @darrellhanks6459 9 днів тому

    Great interview

    • @UK-Sailmakers-International
      @UK-Sailmakers-International 9 днів тому

      Glad you enjoyed it! Christian is a natural storyteller, he certainly knows how to paint a picture with words.

  • @trockenfisch438
    @trockenfisch438 15 днів тому

    Thank you! It's a beneficial POV which explains the system easily.

  • @tiredironrepair
    @tiredironrepair 18 днів тому

    Beautiful and classy. I have a Ron Holland designed Nicholson 33. #39 I saved her from the scrapyard. New motor in now. Just fixed and resealed the keel and got bottom paint. Just working on the courage to make the big left turn now.

  • @stuarth43
    @stuarth43 22 дні тому

    why are you RUNNING without a preventer

  • @rustyheyman214
    @rustyheyman214 27 днів тому

    We primarily use a letter box drop in big winds and when we’re finishing in port and need a quick before hitting the break water.

  • @notme2620
    @notme2620 Місяць тому

    Done quite bit double handed on a Dehler 29 with the Asymmetrical in short course racing, here on our lake. I love it no crew, just 2 good sailor in tune.

  • @joshuapeckham2453
    @joshuapeckham2453 Місяць тому

    I'm very late to the party here, but 100% flick. The very first tack shown, she did not complete her tack and her sails were not filling by the time that the starboard boat had to take avoiding action. ua-cam.com/video/IFJK-YkJFRk/v-deo.html It's clear if you watch it frame-by-frame or at full speed. She does the same again at 0:27, never completes the tack and so has no rights to cause the other boats to take avoiding action.

  • @idiotonaboat
    @idiotonaboat Місяць тому

    The most expensive way to get places for free

  • @12345fowler
    @12345fowler 2 місяці тому

    This is the equivalent as a turn exit crash in any motorsport.

  • @hadorstapa
    @hadorstapa 2 місяці тому

    That's a great bit of sailing, and a great wee video of it, too.

  • @socalcoastalrealtygroup3642
    @socalcoastalrealtygroup3642 2 місяці тому

    Great interview Brendan! WSA-OC & I love Marie! 👏🏼⛵️🏁 ~Debra Osborne 2024 Commodore WSA-OC ⛵️

  • @JohnCornellier
    @JohnCornellier 2 місяці тому

    Thanks. Straight to the point.

  • @user-dn6ij2bt8r
    @user-dn6ij2bt8r 3 місяці тому

    This is a "gybe douse". Re the name "Mexican", I had always understood it was from the Newport to Ensenada race. For decades, the finish line was at the entrance to Ensenada harbor*, and if you didn't douse and gybe ~immediately~, you often had an unpleasant windward return exactly when you wanted to be DONE already. So, the gybe-douse maneuver was widely associated to that locale. (* changed to closer to The Coral now)

  • @henryk8253
    @henryk8253 4 місяці тому

    Is it possible to install multiple reefs (two or three) in a headsail? Some mainsails have up to four reefs. Or is it not recommended?

    • @UK-Sailmakers-International
      @UK-Sailmakers-International 4 місяці тому

      Hello, thank you for your question. Multiple reefs in this style would not be recommended. If a more adaptable sail is needed on a regular basis, a roller furling headsail would be better suited to the task.

  • @emptiester
    @emptiester 4 місяці тому

    Literally always the helmsman chatting about NOTHING.

  • @nickwalters5380
    @nickwalters5380 5 місяців тому

    Got the t-shirt. Creaming along and it all goes tits up in a second. If you race sailboats you will fuck up, just really annoying when you're the one paying the bill....

  • @liamstone3437
    @liamstone3437 5 місяців тому

    So is it appropriate to use a twing instead of cars for other headsails? The advantage being that twings are easily adjusted from the cockpit.

    • @phillycheesetake
      @phillycheesetake 29 днів тому

      Certainly a genoa, or any other foresail you're sheeting outside the rails most of the time. They're really easy to get a shape with as well, much easier than cars, and you don't need to put a dozen holes each side in your deck to fit them.

  • @user-yw6nc8mt6y
    @user-yw6nc8mt6y 5 місяців тому

    we just used to call it 'a windward drop' often praticed for when it it would be useful

  • @marierogers8600
    @marierogers8600 5 місяців тому

    Nice interview!

  • @martygingras8683
    @martygingras8683 5 місяців тому

    Thanks. You anticipated a bunch of my questions.

  • @andrewpeters8690
    @andrewpeters8690 6 місяців тому

    Finally find a video that just explains it, without fluff. Thank you.

  • @andyvan5692
    @andyvan5692 6 місяців тому

    good video, but one more advantage to the letterbox; as the boom is FASTENED to the tack being sailed, to keep the crew safe, there is NO chance of a "Chinese gibe" as the boom is always on the same side as the chute, and no chance of a "power-up" while out of full control.

  • @andyvan5692
    @andyvan5692 6 місяців тому

    by the way, this isn't new, it is the safest way of jibing ANYTIME, as the centring of the boom ensures no crew has a "booming" headache, as the boom is moved slowly, also avoiding any shock loading on the sheet. ( this can also be made by a tight sheet, and crossing centreline by use of the track car, if monitored by ropes, so that is controlled, by the resistance of the rope on a winch); in either method the crew ALWAYS knows where the boom is, and any accident is less likely, or at least only a light tap. BUT anytime this is done, the words "GYBING" should be yelled, so any crew knows the boom is about to move!

  • @supremeflagship8965
    @supremeflagship8965 6 місяців тому

    How deep (how much smaller sail becomes) is headsail reef?

    • @UK-Sailmakers-International
      @UK-Sailmakers-International 6 місяців тому

      Generally speaking, a headsail's slab reef will bring your sail down approximately one size (ie: from a No.1 to a No.2 or a No.3 to a No.4). But you can discuss your specific requirements with your local UK Sailmakers loft, and they will be happy to help deign the perfect sailplan for your needs. You can get a no obligation quote here: www.uksailmakers.com/quote/

  • @sailawayteam
    @sailawayteam 6 місяців тому

    If the crew is even an averagely capable racing crew, imo letter box can be left to near-survival conditions.

  • @KeithStrang
    @KeithStrang 6 місяців тому

    clever!

  • @thedolphin5428
    @thedolphin5428 6 місяців тому

    That skipper will have a back problem. Horrible posture. Should stand centreline.

  • @Airsails
    @Airsails 7 місяців тому

    Maybe the 2nd boat's jib would not be luffing if the twist was reduced by moving the car foreword. With a barber hauler or reaching strut the overlapping jibs do fine on a reach.

  • @kryssbow-sr3hz
    @kryssbow-sr3hz 7 місяців тому

    I'm Australian, Kiwi is slang here for New Zealand. Most of us living on the East coast with NZ to the South East it's likely a similar geographical reference. My skipper jokes it's called a Kiwi drop because if you stuff it up NZ is where the boat ends up 😂

  • @vavasmaxi6954
    @vavasmaxi6954 7 місяців тому

    On the side of the boat

  • @vavasmaxi6954
    @vavasmaxi6954 7 місяців тому

    You do it with a bucket of water

  • @Airsails
    @Airsails 7 місяців тому

    Wonder why they call it a barber hauler.

    • @yachticus
      @yachticus 4 місяці тому

      because there are a half a dozen on so different sets of terminology for not only sails but all the manner in which you rig your yacht to fly those sails ( note the term yacht) as distinct from the American "sailboat"

    • @Airsails
      @Airsails 4 місяці тому

      @@yachticus such a long winded response to say you don't know. Sailboats are also yachts.

  • @PaulHarris-sl1ct
    @PaulHarris-sl1ct 7 місяців тому

    How to gybe is important when to gybe is critical. I sailed (not for long) on a boat where the owner would sail until to the layline way too far from the mark. When on the layline vmg is zero. A very successful one design sailor told me that the way to win is " point the boat in the right direction and drive as fast as you can" sailing fast in the wrong direction is a losing strategy.

  • @sarinager9390
    @sarinager9390 7 місяців тому

    Promo*SM

  • @maxcrittenden9109
    @maxcrittenden9109 8 місяців тому

    Good talk, Brendan! Plenty of food for thought.

  • @michaelquigley1411
    @michaelquigley1411 8 місяців тому

    Geez guys. Take your fricken' time...

  • @csquaredvisionsfpv8964
    @csquaredvisionsfpv8964 8 місяців тому

    Little triangles mean less lean.

  • @atakd
    @atakd 8 місяців тому

    How does this not foul the kite on the spreaders?

    • @UK-Sailmakers-International
      @UK-Sailmakers-International 8 місяців тому

      Make sure your spread tips are taped or have boots on their tips. After doing scores of these drops over the years, I have never had a spinnaker caught on the spreaders. The most common poor result is when you try to button hook the mark. The spinnaker does not start down early enough resulting in the boat trying to sail upwind with most of the spinnaker still up -- which is slow!

    • @user-dn6ij2bt8r
      @user-dn6ij2bt8r 3 місяці тому

      This is an "all or nothing" maneuver - no hesitation, no "taking it slow". Pit pre-flakes the halyard so it 100% goes out clean and fast. As the boat turns, the moment the main covers the kite, the clutch is opened and the sail crashes to the foredeck like a falling curtain. Spin' should never get near the spreaders.

  • @markthomasson5077
    @markthomasson5077 8 місяців тому

    Shocking that they don’t wear crash helmets in these conditions. If hit by that boom, you are dead.

    • @emptiester
      @emptiester 4 місяці тому

      Yeah. But the while point of racing is getting laid after. ... So...

  • @BrotherHoodofTheDogxix
    @BrotherHoodofTheDogxix 9 місяців тому

    Just found this channel. And subscribed.

  • @Misteribel
    @Misteribel 9 місяців тому

    Nice shot and music, but what about the "learning" part? Would love to actually learn something about storm sails :)

  • @Monicaeloo
    @Monicaeloo 9 місяців тому

    Thanks for sharing, this is very cool video! I will test it One quick question, I'm planning to test it first time with engine. How can I avoid have the rope stuck with the propeller? I see the rope goes almost under the boat when tacking.

    • @UK-Sailmakers-International
      @UK-Sailmakers-International 9 місяців тому

      If you are going to try this with the engine, I suggest having some in a dingy set the drogue in the water after you put the boat in gear. This should reduce the chance of fouling the prop with the drogue steering lines.

  • @pootsman6722
    @pootsman6722 10 місяців тому

    How about if the MOB is unconscious?? What's the latest/best recommended way of retrieving then? Suppose the answer to this really depends on the number of crew, but I'm thinking in the case of a couple sailing, 1 MOB, the other on board.

    • @warrenthorp
      @warrenthorp 8 місяців тому

      I’d like to know the answer to this one too.

    • @UK-Sailmakers-International
      @UK-Sailmakers-International 5 місяців тому

      There are always new and/or improved MOB recovery methods being developed. One solution for an incapacitated MOB is the use of a rescue swimmer in conjunction with a Mid-Line lift. The rescue swimmer is connected to the boat with a safety line, who will reach the MOB and get Mid-Line lifted together. This rescue swimmer needs to be trained and practiced at this manoeuvre. Otherwise, a second option which is less dangerous for the rescuer but more dangerous for the unconscious MOB is to manoeuvre the boat close enough that a rescue crew can be lowered on a halyard into the water to secure the MOB. This rescue crew should be wearing a harness and a PFD as well. Techniques to secure the MOB include using a tether, a second halyard, the LifeSling, or (if nothing else) bear-hugging the MOB. Many modern PFDs have a dedicated lifting strap built in which makes it much easier to find a secure lifting point to affix the halyard, etc. It's very important for crews to practice real world MOB drills and skills on a regular basis. It's also important to be familiar with your own PFD's features, including where the lifting strap and tether points are, and even better if you are also acquainted with your crew's equipment too for situations where they may be unable to help themselves. For anyone doing any coastal or offshore sailing, taking a reputable Offshore Personal Survival Course in your area is something I very highly recommend.

  • @ParaAnchors
    @ParaAnchors 10 місяців тому

    Its smart to test equipment in calm seas before working your way up to rougher conditions. This allows you to make adjustments if you notice a potential problem. Like some of you mention in the comments. If storm drogues, para-anchors, and accessories are designed for storm use; then the equipment should handle emergency steering in a storm.

  • @koroushzadeh
    @koroushzadeh 10 місяців тому

    Where can I find one to purchase?

    • @UK-Sailmakers-International
      @UK-Sailmakers-International 5 місяців тому

      You can contact your local UK Sailmakers loft and they will help you select the correct size for your boat. Visit www.uksailmakers.com/lofts/ to find the nearest loft to you.

  • @xiangyangchen8706
    @xiangyangchen8706 11 місяців тому

    very good, thanks

  • @aarons.watches
    @aarons.watches 11 місяців тому

    Curious if this will work if your rudder is stuck hard over?

    • @ParaAnchors
      @ParaAnchors 10 місяців тому

      Yes. If the rudder is stuck hard over to port, then you place the storm drogue on the starboard side. Usually the storm drogue has to be near the boat to be effective.

    • @aarons.watches
      @aarons.watches 10 місяців тому

      @@ParaAnchors Roger that. Great info, thank you!🥂

  • @robertkowalski9906
    @robertkowalski9906 11 місяців тому

    I have a j/130 do it the same way but under the boom and by myself into the cockpit using my foot to play out the halyard...not saying it doesn't get interesting ;-)

    • @UK-Sailmakers-International
      @UK-Sailmakers-International 11 місяців тому

      Taking the spinnaker down over the top of the boom, helps keep the sail out of the water, which prevents you from "shrimping" the sail.

    • @robertkowalski9906
      @robertkowalski9906 11 місяців тому

      . @UK-Sailmakers-International Bad choreography, and an out of control halyard is what gets the spin wet. Practice keeps it dry wherever you take it down. I've served on a few boats where they like doin it over the boom, but honestly in a race type situation I find it a little slow. All those extra lines goin over the boom, a person or two right where you're pulling in the main and adjusting the Cunningham and outhaul. Just too much traffic on a busy intersection at a crucial moment. But hey, thats just me.