Comments about sailing the Swift for the first time
Sailing the Swift for the First Time
By Chris Wickham
Earlier this Fall, Bram and I went out in a pair of his Swift Solos on two separate occasions. It was my first time in the Swift and, having some experience with 49ers, I was appropriately respectful and humble about my ability to handle the boat. Bram and I had waited for the right wind conditions, canceling the first time we had suited up because the wind was too erratic and gusty. Our patience paid off with a wind speed of about 7-9 the first day and then about 8-12 the second day. Bram had carefully set the boat up for the wind conditions each time and I never felt overpowered. We were sailing out of Shilshole Marina in Seattle, and for those of you who have never been there, sailing out of the marina can be quite a challenge. You start off with either a series of tacks or jibes between a large rock breakwater and the floats in the midst of steady boat traffic. Once out of the marina, Bram and I staged mini-races around a course we had improvised. I was able to hold my own against him upwind, but downwind his technique was much better. I have to admit my single-handed hoists and douses could use a little work. For those of you with a little grey hair and not much skiff experience, take heart. My son and I started sailing a 49er (our first trapeze boat and first skiff) about 4 years ago. We took a year off from sailing when my job got too intense last year, and then I had knee surgery. So the 4 years are more like 2. And I’ll be 60 next month! Despite all of that, the Swift was quite easy to sail. Although it has plenty of power, I never felt intimidated by the boat (unlike the 49er). I think having all the controls at your command helps your confidence and enables you to learn more quickly what is working and what is not working. I was quite proud of myself when I returned to the float both times without one capsize. I’m definitely interested in the boat, although unlike most of you, I can’t seem to see my way clear to building one because of other time commitments in my life (such as my job). And because my son is still willing to put up with his old man on the water, I can’t let go of the 49er just yet. I see the Swift as my next boat, however, and hope to see you all at the starting line one of these days.
