Sail Away
Karen Ball has been sailing all her life and knows her port from her starboard. She gives landlubber Kentigern Wong a few tips.
HK Magazine: Why sail?
Karen Ball: Sailing is exciting. It’s practically no different from car racing, except minus the pollution and traffic. You also get to learn practical skills, like tying knots and reading the wind. And it’s great for your social life, too.
HK: What’s been your best experience?
KB: My team and I raced in a Hong Kong-Philippines regatta last year. It’s intense when we were competing, but the return trip was so relaxing as we swam, sun-bathed and basically just chilled out on the boat. Life doesn’t get much better than that.
HK: Best places to learn to sail?
KB: Private yacht clubs like the Hong Kong Yacht Club and the Hebe Haven Yacht Club provide courses for their members. Anyone can learn to sail from government facilities like the water sports centers in Stanley and Sai Kung.
HK: Will I need to buy a boat?
KB: Boats aren’t exactly what you’d call cheap thrills. The prices range from $100,000 to a few million. But you don’t have to buy one. The clubs and the government facilities provide boats for their learners during the courses.
HK: You’re doing a 24-hour charity race this weekend. What’s that like?
KB: Last year, over 400 competitors took part in the race and over 1,000 people came to the event. We raised about $700,000. Those who stayed on land were having fun at the barbecue and at the bar. There’s a really great carnival atmosphere.