The Art of War and Weeknight Racing

Our friends at SpinSheet.com find the deeper meaning for why we sail…

Written more than 2000 years ago, Sun Tzu’s classic “The Art of War” is a major force for military strategists not only in China, but around the world. The subtle lessons communicate a deep understanding of battlefield strategy and have relevance in various aspects of daily life as well.

Here, we look at Sun Tzu’s military theory and apply it to the more obtuse action of beer can racing. Because everything comes back to sailing, when you really think about it.

War is a matter of vital importance to the state; the province of life or death; the road to survival or ruin.

Translation: Nothing is as important as racing your boat. Certainly not work. Your spouse understands and made his or her own plans this evening. Not even the kids are that big of a deal until one of them learns how to tie a bowline.

A skilled commander seeks victory from the situation, and does not demand it of his subordinates.

Translation: Yes, your crew is a bunch of clowns. Your bowman has a tendency to crap his pants every time you’re in a tack or cross situation, and your tactician can’t go a night without asking which direction the wind is coming from. But yelling at them does about as much good as putting a rabid dingo in the cockpit. These are your friends, and while it’s awesome to win, you also want everybody to have fun. On the weeknights, having fun is everything.

When your weapons are dulled and ardor damped, your strength exhausted and treasure spent, neighboring rulers will take advantage of your distress to act. And even though you have wise counselors, none will be able to lay good plans for the future.

Translation: Yes, it is called ‘beer can racing’ for a rather important and highly celebrated reason. But even the world’s best sailor becomes an incompetent walrus after the fifth beer, ok? Even if your official position is “rail meat,” keep your head in the game and out of the Coors Light until your position has been fully established.

Complete report… click here.