Sign In / Register
Former America’s Cup sailor Rick Dodson, who is giving a talk at Gulf Harbour Yacht Club on June 6, says one thing he has learned from sailing races is “never, ever give up”.
That philosophy has also been demonstrated in his own life – Rick was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1997 and went on to represent his country again, competing in the 2016 Paralympics inRio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Assisted by three good friends, Hayden Whitburn, Matt Mason and Joey Allan, Rick’s talk at the yacht club will provide insight into both his time as a top, able-bodied sailor and as a Paralympian.
At the heart of it is not just sailing, but other sailors.
“The best part of my career was not just winning, but the friendships I made – and they still help me to this day,” he says.“The support I had from friends was overwhelming – for example, Russell [Coutts] and my friends helped me fundraise to get to Rio for the Paralympics.”
He says a highlight of the Paralympics was meeting amazing athletes, and talking to them about their disabilities and how they deal with them.
“They are bloody strong people and good sailors.”
Rick has high hopes for the upcoming America’s Cup campaign, saying Team NZ’s boat “looks the best overall and the crew work looks slick”.
“I am disappointed the event has left NZ but understand why it moved to Europe. It all comes down to what is best for sponsors and the teams – the money. I really hope it comes back to NZ, but it might be a few cycles away.”
He says it’s been a long time between visits to Gulf Harbour Yacht Club, where he once raced Etchells, but he’s excited to return.
“It’s a great place to sail, nice breeze and friendly people. It’s amazing how the place has expanded over the years.”
The book about his life and career: Storms Ahead, by Rebecca Hayter, published last year, will be available at the talk.
“The book is about my life – the highs and lows. I want to tell people life is hard, but never ever give up!”
The talk, America’s Cup champion to Paralympian is at the yacht club on Thursday, June 6, starting 7pm. All welcome. More info, see What’s On, p27.
