We’re excited to recognize Chloe, a dedicated 29er sailor from the U.S., as our Sustainable Sailor of the Month for March 2025! Chloe stands out for her commitment to high-performance sailing and her efforts to promote sustainability within her local sailing community. Certified by Sailors for the Sea and supported by Musto, who will gift her a sailing bag, this recognition highlights young sailors making a difference for our sport and our planet.
Can you tell us a little about where you're from and how you got into sailing?
My dad first introduced me to sailing at a young age. I started sailing Sabots every summer around the age of 8. As I grew older, I sailed a variety of RS boats such as Teras, Quests, and the RS Venture. I loved being out on the water and learning how to sail in different wind and wave conditions. Eventually, I began sailing FJs and C420s out of Long Beach during the school year and summer. About a year ago, I discovered the 29er class and was immediately drawn to skiff sailing—it quickly became an addiction!
What drew you to the 29er class specifically?
I had always wanted to sail a faster, more technical boat. When I found out about the 29er, I was intrigued and started watching countless YouTube videos to learn more. In the spring of 2024, my mom bought a 29er so I could train, and we worked with a local club to support the class. What really drew me in was the speed, responsiveness, and the level of athleticism and precision required to sail it well.
How long have you been sailing the 29er, and what do you love most about it?
I’ve been sailing 29ers since early summer 2024. The learning curve was steep—it demands coordination, balance, and technical skill. But once I experienced what it’s like to fly downwind in 20 knots, I was hooked. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of sailing a 29er at full speed.
Do you sail with a regular partner? If so, how did you two team up?
I initially sailed 29ers with my younger brother for quite a while. More recently, I teamed up with a new female partner based in San Diego, who travels to Long Beach to train with me. Finding a committed teammate nearby can be challenging since there are fewer 29er sailors in the U.S. compared to C420 or FJ fleets.
What does a typical week of training balanced with school look like for you?
Balancing sailing and academics takes effort, but I’ve developed a good system. I prioritize schoolwork because I’m committed to getting into a strong college for my future. I typically train twice a week during the school year, and sometimes more—up to four times when my schedule allows. I try to complete assignments during the weekdays so my weekends are free for sailing. Since PE is a school requirement, I also use the gym to build strength before practice when I can.
What’s been your most memorable regatta or sailing moment so far?
Orange Bowl 2024 in Miami was by far my most memorable regatta. I crewed for Ampi, an incredible sailor from Argentina. The conditions were windy and cold, but ideal for racing. Over three days, I learned so much from her—lessons that have significantly improved my sailing since. We finished 5th overall and were the top female team. It was an unforgettable experience.
Do you have a sailing role model or someone you look up to?
One of my biggest role models is Hans Henken, Olympian and SailGP sailor. I heard him speak during a sailing clinic where he joined a panel with other elite sailors. His mindset and advice were incredibly inspiring. I took notes on what he said, and his work ethic and accomplishments continue to motivate me to keep improving in the 29er.
What inspired you to get involved in sustainability within sailing?
I was inspired by how much more proactive Europe is compared to the U.S. when it comes to sustainability. That motivated me to take initiative and start bringing eco-conscious practices into yacht clubs and regattas here. I hoped that by taking the first step, other young sailors would follow.
What was it like presenting at your club with Lara Dallman-Weiss?
Presenting at Alamitos Bay Yacht Club with Lara Dallman-Weiss was amazing. I got to learn about her work as an Ambassador for Sailors for the Sea, and I gained a deeper understanding of her journey both as a competitive sailor and a leader in ocean advocacy.
Why do you think it’s important for sailors to take action for the environment?
As sailors, we’re directly connected to the ocean—we see the impacts of pollution and climate change firsthand. We have a responsibility to protect the water we rely on. More importantly, we only have one Earth, and preserving it is everyone’s responsibility—on land and at sea.
Do you have any tips for young sailors who want to get involved in ocean advocacy?
Absolutely! Young sailors can start by organizing or joining beach cleanups after practices or regattas. They can create posters and raise awareness within their sailing communities. Using reusable water bottles, lunch containers, and gear bags instead of single-use plastics is also a great step. Sharing these practices with teammates, coaches, and younger sailors helps spread the message.
Are you planning to compete at the 29er Worlds this year?
I’ve decided not to compete at Worlds this year. I want to focus on improving my skills and gaining more experience so I can perform at my best in the future. I plan to be ready for 29er Worlds in Germany in 2026. This summer, I’ll be racing at the 29er Nationals in San Francisco.
What are your short-term and long-term goals in sailing?
In the short term, I want to build more strength to stay out on the trapeze longer and improve my ability to read wind shifts and puffs. Long term, I aim to earn another top 5 finish at a national regatta, qualify for Youth Worlds, and keep progressing toward becoming a highly skilled and competitive sailor.
Outside of sailing, what are some other passions or dreams you’re pursuing?
Outside of sailing, I play competitive tennis and also enjoy rallying with friends just for fun. I run a handmade jewelry business on Etsy, which is a creative outlet I’m really passionate about. I also love art and am always working on improving my skills and experimenting with new techniques. In addition, I’m learning to code with the goal of one day becoming a data scientist in marketing or business.
Chloe’s commitment to clean sailing, youth leadership, and environmental awareness makes her a standout in the 29er class and a fantastic ambassador for the sport. Congratulations, Chloe!