Andrew Campbell starts the conversation talking about his families roles in his sailing success and following in his father’s footsteps before moving on to his next and most thrilling journey, the America’s Cup, sailing with American Magic.
Starting off the Sailcast episode, Andrew talks about the simple exposure that he received from the Junior Sailing Program and how his family (who double as his role models) made it the norm to go sailing often. Born in Toms River, NJ, Andrew made it to the West Coast to start the SDYC Junior Sailing Program around age 6 or 7. His father, Bill Campbell, sailed the ’92 America’s Cup and was Commodore nearly 15 years ago. “My family always used SDYC as the center of their universe,” he explains.
Andrew then transitions into the next stages of his life. “To come out of singlehanded sailing and go towards a big team organization like that takes a lot of learning and maturity,” he explains in talking about joining American Magic.
Stories of Laser sailing back in the day were shared. Andrew talks about the beauty of the boat and the intense competition that arises from the fleet. He explains how Laser sailing shaped the sailor who is he today. He continues discussing his time in the Star Class, one of Andrews most successful sailing careers, being ranked as a top sailor in the class.
Andrew continues with the day he got asked to join the team for the America’s Cup. “I knew exactly what the answer was,” he said. There was no hesitation in saying yes to the team. His wife and two children have been his biggest supporter in this journey.
He talks about understanding the race track, the planning that takes place long before the race, and learning how to race foiling boats. He continues with stories of his time in Bermuda, his campaign and his competitors.
“It doesn’t really matter how fast you’re going, as long as you’re going a half knot faster than the other guy,” he says.
NYYC takes American Magic very seriously. Andrew explains the intensity that goes into putting the team together and how they’re not only there to win, they are there to defend. He speaks of his current days in Pensacola, FL, their practice on the 38’ version of the boat, and his role as a foil trimmer on American Magic.
After telling some experiences that he is having learning about the boat and practicing, Andrew finishes with a story from his childhood years in the Sabot.
Up next, Andrew will be relocating to Rhode Island where he can continue practicing with the team before the America’s Cup.