[sailchef]

I have a life long friend who started out on J-24 's and now races J-105's. He travels the northern hemisphere and is sponsored by a very large Sail manufacturer. For him, it has been a 50 year long love of the sport.

Another friend has a classic 1960's era 38' wooden cruiser. He probably spends more time on his boat than the first friend. He's always oiling or varnishing or sewing something, as well as working on all the electrical and mechanical. His boat rarely leaves the dock.

They both love what they do. Sailing isn't for everyone, but for some it can be contagious.

Start out slow, learning to sail is a great adventure. If its meant to be you'll be looking at bigger boats soon enough.

I think every young man should experience all the trials and tribulations that sailing has to offer.