Jim Madden, owner of the series of Stark Raving Mad boats, joins us this week on the San Diego Yacht Club Sailcast to talk about SRM, his search for a race boat, and traditions among his crew.
The episode starts with Jim telling host Alli Bell how he got started into sailing, following in the footsteps of his father in New York. He talks about the progression of boats he sailed as a kid before starting his big boat career in the Ranger 33. Jim tells the story of why he bought his Ranger 33 and the accident that he experienced many years ago, leaving him blind in one eye. The most recent Ranger 33 was the result of one of Jim’s goals to never give up despite his injury. “A nostalgia project,” he said.
Jim tells Alli the story of his first Stark Raving Mad, where the boat name came from, and how it started the course to getting faster and faster. From there, he explains the evolution of his SRM series and told stories of his experiences on the way.
More recently started Jim’s search for the perfect race boat, which ultimately came to this year’s purchase of Stark Raving Mad IX. SRM VII, his Swan 601, is about to embark on a packed 2022, sailing in the US, Bermuda and Italy. Jim mentions the possibility of sailing in Transpac 2023 and tells Alli his bucket list races including Fastnet and Sydney to Hobart race.
Alli and Jim talk about his photo on the wall of Harbor Court’s Candy Store before moving on to the important of teams and leadership. “I’m a huge believer in getting people who are outstanding at their position, trusting them, and not second guessing.” With that being said, Jim believe’s his crew feels very safe on his boat. He leads into the end of the episode with his three rules: 1. Safety, 2. No Damaging Boats, 3. Do Well.
Jim tells his racing traditions and events he has with his crew before finishing the episode with advice for others. "Be realistic, but aspirational,” he says.