Andy Richards - a madforsailing profile

The Laser 5000 UK National and EuroCup champion is ready to give 18-foot skiffing a go

What professional links do you have to the sport?
None, unless you count sponsors.

What’s your most memorable moment in sailing?
Some of the most memorable moments came from a BUSA tour of the USA . It was six weeks of outstanding sailing with a great bunch of sailors.

What’s your biggest remaining goal in sailing?
Win another national championship in another class.

How much time do you spend on the water each week?
During the season it's most weekends and holidays - used to do a bit during the week but work takes priority now!

Do you have a sponsor, and if so, who?
We've been very lucky this year to have the great support of Traxdata, they've not only helped us out with our campaign costs but have been avid supporters of our sailing - its great when you can get sponsor having such an interest. We also have had support from Gull and T&G Clothing.

Who are your sailing heroes - and why?
When I was young, Paul Elvstrom was a god - in fact still is. A true sailor and sportsman. But just now the whole UK Olympic squad are top of my list.

What is the best excuse you’ve ever made for a poor performance in a race?
Everyone else was faster!

What’s your favourite sailing venue and why?
In the UK it would have to be Weymouth or Lyme Regis for the variety of conditions and great race management.
Others like the Italian lakes are high on the list for the shear spectacle of wind and scenery taken in with liberal amounts of La Dolce Vita!

What’s the single thing that could most improve the running of championship regattas?
Professional race officers who have the sailors' needs at heart. Being a race officer is a skill, built up through knowledge and experience and could be improved by talking to the competitors... not many do that.

What’s your greatest strength in sailing?
Tactical awareness and being conservative on the pitch.

What’s your greatest weakness in sailing?
Switching off during a race when not under pressure.

What’s the single most important piece of advice you could give to younger sailors?
Have fun! Make sure you sail in fun boats and with people you enjoy, whilst at the same time set achievable and stretching goals.

Would you rather sail with your friends - or with someone like Russell Coutts?
Tough one - if the offer to sail with Russell came up I must admit I'd drop everything. However I'd try and get him to invite my friends along as well!

Who do you think are the best sailors in Britain?
Ian Walker - having raced against and with him over the last 15 years it's clear to see why he is head and shoulders above the rest. He is one of the most naturally gifted sailors around who uses his head and has a great laugh at the same time.

I must add a little word for my wee sister Emma Richards who won the single-handed Transat earlier this year in Pindar and she's achieved more at her young age than most of us can dream of!

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