Harken Speedteam: Paige Railey

PAIGE RAILEY:
LASER RADIAL SUPER STAR

Harken Speedteam and Laser Radial super star Paige Railey has exploded onto the international sailing scene. In just a few years, she has risen from US High School National Champion, to gold medal at the ISAF Youth Worlds in Busan, Korea, propelling her to the top of the world rankings. At 18, she has entered the record books, becoming the first sailor to win two Singlehanded Girls Youth World Championship titles (she was 1st in 2003 and won bronze in 2002).Paige won gold at the 2006 pre-Olympic regatta in Bejiing, China. After taking some time off, Paige returned to Laser Radial competition, taking a 1st place at the 2009 Princess Sofia regatta in Palma.

Paige's success has not come without plenty of hard work. She trains in the gym and on the water every day of the week. "I believe the months before a big event are what will prepare you. If you think that you can train hard for two weeks before a big regatta and sail your best, you're wrong. It's all about preparation." Paige doesn't like looking too far ahead, but prefers to take one race at a time and sail her best.

In 2006, Paige was named ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year, only the second time the award has been given to an American. She was also named US SAILING's 2006 Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year.

Links:
International Laser Class
International Laser Deck Layout
Harken Canvas
Harken Dealers
McLube™
Paige Railey Website

Speedteam Spotlight:
Harken & McLube™ Speedteam sailors compete in Olympic and international racing classes around the world. We are dedicated to helping these outstanding athletes achieve their dreams and use their feedback to equip all sailors with the best products possible.

What is it you find most fun or rewarding about this sport?
Paige Railey:This sport requires many hours of strenuous work. When I go to a competition and win or sail very well, that is what is rewarding to me. When I work hard and get good results, I feel II am working toward my goals.

Is there a mentor, role model or some other figure in your life who has impacted your sailing?
PR: My friend Olivia Ceraolo has impacted my sailing. She died of cancer last year.
The death devastated me, but she taught me how precious life is. I learned to enjoy every moment I am on the water. Sometimes when I'm racing I think to myself, "This one's for you Olivia."

Is there another side to you that you'd like to share with the readership?
PR: Sure! I try to be a regular 18-year-old. I like to hang out with friends, do girly things, and of course I like any type of water activity. Sailing consumes a majority of my life, but I love the life I chose. Not many people can say they have been traveling all over the world since the age of 13.

Do you have any feedback or thoughts on Harken and McLube™ products?
PR: I am very satisfied with the products. My whole boat is equipped with Harken gear and my lines run very smoothly. Since I switched to Harken, I haven't had one block break. I also enjoy the gloves made by Harken. The grip on them is excellent and they let my hands breathe.

When I first started sailing, I used McLube™ to lube everything that I wanted and I still use it.
I have cans of McLube™ in my sailing bag and in my drawers at home.

DECK layout

Laser Radial

featured Hardware

Sailing Gloves

Lubricant

McLube™ Sailkote