What a Difference a Year Makes
“Your entire life can change in a year. Stop worrying about the big stuff… focus on getting the little things right every day and the ripple effect will change your life.”
— Mel Robbins
That line hit home for me this weekend at the Alamitos Bay Labor Day Regatta.
Last year, I finished 23rd out of 24 here. This year, I came back and placed 16th out of 28 overall, and 6th out of 12 women. On paper, it’s a modest improvement. But the real story is what’s behind those numbers—the ripple effect of showing up, putting in the work, and trusting that small steps forward add up to something bigger.
We had seven races in heavy breeze and chop—classic Alamitos Bay conditions. Grueling, physical, and relentless. Hiking in heavy air is still my toughest challenge, but I could feel the difference compared to last year: more strength, more endurance, more fight.
This past year hasn’t just been about racing. I’ve also lost 58 pounds, and the impact on the water is undeniable. I feel quicker off the start line with stronger acceleration, sharper and more decisive through every tack, and more agile catching waves downwind. It’s not just about carrying less weight—it’s about moving with more efficiency, power, and responsiveness when it matters most.
First day of the Labor Day Regatta at ABYC — August 30, 2025
The day I took ownership of “Second Wind” – August 2024
And the progress is palpable. I’m no longer bringing up the rear of the fleet—I’m out in front with the pack of real competitors, fighting for position, testing myself against sailors who push me harder every race. That progress now shows in the rankings too: after this weekend, I’m 34th overall and the 5th woman in North America.
The road ahead isn’t without obstacles. I’ll be having surgery in October to repair an umbilical hernia and diastasis recti, and once I’m healed, I’ll finally be able to focus on the strength training that will carry me into the next level of racing.
So while 16th wasn’t quite where I wanted to land, it’s still a marker of progress. Proof that the little things matter. Proof that a year of steady effort can shift the trajectory. And proof that the next year holds even more possibility.
I can’t wait to see what the next year brings.
If you’d like to be part of this journey, you can support the campaign through a donation or by grabbing some Second Wind Racing swag—every bit helps fuel the road to LA 2028.
