Q&A with Nikki Curwen: Offshore racer and Helly Hansen ambassador
by Helly Hansen 28 May 2015 10:37 BST
28 May 2015
Nikki Curwen is an offshore racer and Helly Hansen ambassador – currently in training for the Mini Transat 2015
Helly Hansen: How did you get into sailing, what is your first memory of it?
Nikki Curwen: Both my parents are sailors, so I was in a boat when I was less than a year old! I've grown up on and around the water and have always loved it. When I was about seven or eight, my older sister had joined the local club and was sailing every Saturday, I remember going down to the club to watch them race and eagerly waiting to grow up and be able to join in myself.
HH: What advice would you give to:
a. People trying to get into sailing?
NC: Get down to a local sailing club, jump in a dinghy and just try it. What's the worst that can happen? You get wet! The response and understanding of wind direction is definitely easier to find from sailing in smaller boats. Although, it's could also be nice to start on a dry cruising boat. To really get to grips with the sport I'd definitely suggest going on a dinghy course.
b. Anyone interested in applying for the Mini Transat?
NC: See if you can find someone with one and get out for a sail. If you have the opportunity, give solo a try before jumping full in, otherwise head out to France for one of the starts of the race itself or smaller and get a taste for it.
HH: What is the proudest moment of your sailing career, so far?
NC: I'm living it right now – with the Mini Transat in less than 5 months! I'll be doing lots of training to improve but I'm pretty much set to be on the start line and sail across. After two years of hard work, it is an incredible feeling.
HH: What does a typical day look like for you?
NC: A typical day doesn't really exist – there are many things I have to do, which depend on weather and location. Although my team is growing with lots of help and support, I'm still in control of every aspect of my campaign. From logistics, boat maintenance, admin, training, media and sponsors, by the time it comes the racing itself, it almost feels like my holiday.
I don't really have a 9-5 day; in fact it tends to be 24/7. Currently my days are spent working on the boat and going through security checks in preparation for my next race. I spend time ordering new parts, talking to sponsors and those that can only be reached during the day. At night I get on with navigation, Meteo, and other admin jobs, which I can do without relying on daylight.
HH: What kind of cross training do you do?
NC: Squash, cycling and swimming.
HH: How do you relax in between training?
NC: Between races I try to take one day out from the boat and do absolutely nothing, although races are often back to back, and there isn't that much down time!
HH: Which items couldn't you live without when you're sailing?
NC: Music.
HH: What is your favourite piece of (Helly Hansen) kit and why?
NC: The Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Jacket – it's warm and waterproof, great for on land and the boat.
HH: Where is your favourite place to sail and why?
NC: I have very fond memories of sailing around the channel islands, especially Alderney and Sark.
HH: Is there anyone that you look up to?
NC: For offshore and solo sailing, Pete Goss was always my inspiration having read his book when I was younger. Now the list has multiplied and I have huge respect for all offshore sailors.
HH: Where do you see yourself in ten years?
NC: With any luck I'd love to be in the IMOCA fleet aiming towards the Vendee Globe!
Find out more about Nikki Curwen at nikkicurwen.com and more about Helly Hansen at www.hellyhansen.com