This year, for the first time, I had my boat waxed and "detailed" by someone other than myself. Right now, at 74, I'm looking at the probability of hip replacement surgery in the next few months. Assuming a good recovery from that and a continuation of my exercise program, I'll be back at sailing until my body says "no more."

When I was in my late '60s it became apparent that sailing, (mostly singlehanded) and maintaining INVINCIBLE SUMMER, my old Alberg 35, was becoming too big a task. I sold the boat and bought an International Folkboat, which I still enjoy. Maintaining and sailing a smaller boat is MUCH easier.

Despite the aches and limitations of advancing age, I believe that the physical, psychological, and yes, spiritual, rewards of sailing are a joy that I can't replace with any other activity.