14 Questions to … Don Hackbarth

Don Hackbarth, Snipe sailor from Marietta

– 1) Your first time on a sailing boat?

My first time on a sailboat was in the late 1950’s when my grandfather bought for his family a used youth training boat which is used on the inland lakes of the midwest

– 2) Your first time on a Snipe?

My first time on a Snipe was in 1984

– 3) The most bizarre thing that happened in a regatta?

The most bizarre thing that happened to me in a regatta was when my boat capsized on the Race Committee finish boat at the end of a race at the USA Nationals in Cleveland.

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– 4) What is the thing that most angers you in a race/regatta?

Not being able to perform to the best of my ability because I did not properly prepare.

– 5) Which is the race/regatta that you remember with the most pleasure?

The Nationals years ago at North Cape YC when I first qualified for the Championship Fleet by getting a 3rd in a qualification series race as a result of a radical wind direction and velocity shift on the last weather leg.

– 6) And the race/regatta you would like to forget?

A regatta years ago in Charleston South Carolina which I was leading going into the final race on Sunday and all I need to do to win was start and finish. The second place boat and our boat sailed a very close race with a great tacking duel on the last beat and I crossed the line first but did not get a finish signal as I was OCS! Lost the regatta!!

– 7) Your “dream in the peak”? (Your sailing dream?)

To sail at least once with my grandchildren in my Snipe. They are 7, 4 and 15 months old right now. The 7 year old has already skippered the boat once.

– 8) Sailing goals for 2014, and beyond?

Continuing to participate as long as I physically and mentally can.

– 9) The most important people for you in sailing and in the Snipe?

The list is too long to properly acknowledge all the people who have been most important. Probably the most important over the entire time of my involvement in racing has been The Old Man, Hal Gilreath and Peter Commette. The Old Man has been a great example of dedication to the sport of sailing and the Snipe Class, Hal has always been there to encourage me, a Peter has always been there to give advice on how to improve my sailing and tune my boat.

– 10) Why the Snipe?

The people involved in the Class who make the experience enjoyable and a lifetime of friendship

– 11) Your perfect sailing venue and your perfect sailing conditions?

Perfect sailing venue is Biscayne Bay with 12-15 knots, temps in mid 70’s to low 80’s and clear skies.

– 12) Besides sailing which other sport do you practice?

Snow skiing, biking and kayaking

– 13) Are you superstitious?

No. Also I try not to take what happens to me on the race core as a reflection of my self worth.

– 14) Your perfect holiday?

A trip to the beach with my children and my grandchildren