Q&A with Deborah Blair

The Ocean Race Sprint Cup
I feel very privileged to have had the opportunities I have had so far. However, one event in particular does stand out to me, and that would be the Ocean Race Sprint Cup in 2023 onboard a VO65. What made this so special was being a part of such an iconic race and sailing alongside such a diverse mix of great sailors. Also, if I am being really honest there were some epic sailing conditions on leg 1 from Alicante (Spain) to Mindelo (Capo Verde).

I crossed the Atlantic at 21 with Alexia Barrier onboard the Famous Project Mod 70. We had really rough conditions for the first few days, but being around such experienced sailors such Alexia and Dee Caffari really helped. Plus, there was always the thought of my next meal, something very important to me!

My long handle spoon, essential for eating from freeze dried packets.

If you weren’t a sailor, what would you be doing instead?

If I was not a sailor, I would certainly be an athlete of some type!  I would like to think I would be a rower or a cyclist. Technically I am a software engineer so that could always be Plan B.