Dave Perry’s Words of Wisdom

Founded in 2010 by Hunt and Betsy Lawrence, the mission of Oakcliff Sailing is to raise the caliber of sailing in the United States. Among the people that have helped with this goal is Dave Perry.

As a racing rules expert and accomplished match racer, Dave has brought his unique teaching style to the Oakcliff facility in Oyster Bay, NY. To honor Dave, Oakcliff Sailing Executive Director Dawn Riley is asking for some help:

If you have walked through the doors at Oakcliff, chances are you have benefited from the guidance and support of renowned match racer Dave Perry. Anyone who has seen Dave in action knows his charisma, humor and one-liners are what make him such a phenomenal coach and entertaining competitor.

Dave also served on the board of Oakcliff since its inception 12 years ago. On the occasion of his retirement this January, the Board of Directors resolved that there be a Dave Perry quote on the starboard side of each of the Match 40 booms, “to ensure each Oakcliff match racer has Dave Perry in their ear.”

There were so many options that we have narrowed it down to 11 and now are inviting all of you to vote. Eight boats means only 8 spots, competition is high!

Dave Perry’s Words of Wisdom
• It’s faster to go downwind WITHOUT a spinnaker than upwind with a spinnaker
• Twing Twing Sheet Sheet
• When in doubt, just STOP!
• It’s just like a spider on a mirror
• Position over penalty
• In a match race, you’re racing against two boats
• You don’t have to win all the races to win the regatta; just the right ones
• I’ve never seen a Houdini done right not work
• Stay out of Downwind Jail
• The 3 Ps- Patience, Perseverance, and Positivity
• The game of sailing is played 30 seconds ahead of the boat

To vote for your favorite Dave Perry one-liners, click here.