In need of leadership to believe in

by Craig Leweck, Scuttlebutt Sailing News
The struggles of the US Olympic Sailing Program have long been attributed to its funding deficiencies, but its more complicated than that. There are other variables at work, but all the issues would be minimized if there was something to believe in.

It is a privilege for the sport to be included in the Olympic Games, and despite the International Olympic Committee juggling with its identity, it remains a massive mountain to summit. But it is a hell of a climb, and without US Sailing providing a program that instills confidence, it is easy to climb elsewhere.

The US Sailing program has had over a decade of turnover, which this past year erupting into epic distraction. The latest chapter now involves litigation by US Sailing, which may be a rightful action but I can’t see it helping the country get closer to the podium. A 75-page document details the saga.

The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee looks for US Sailing to provide them a Sailing team for competition, and that at a minimum requires a clear and precise selection system, and to gather uniform sizes for those selected. They should do more, but therein lies the struggle.

On a positive note for Paris 2024, the USA is holding its first domestic Olympic selection series since 2008, which was a vision (by the defendants in the lawsuit) to heighten interest and grow the future base of competitors. For the first of two trials, the fleets were not big but the winners were arguably correct, and it was mission accomplished for increasing depth.

Looking toward Paris 2024 and beyond, I pray the athletes can overcome dysfunction. They deserve more, as to pursue the Olympic Games is an honor and privilege which requires significant sacrifice, commitment, and focus from an early age.

I tried and failed, but I am proud to have contributed to the medal won in my event. Others deserve the chance too but they need leadership to believe in. Standing by for it…