How To Inspire Young Sailors: Pass the Tiller

Truman’s first regatta underway, confidently steering Geronimo amid a fleet of competitive Victory 21s. Marissa Neely

Ready to tack,” Chris said, nodding to our nephew Truman, who sat cross-legged in front of me, his eyes wide with anticipation.

At just 10 years old, Truman was now the same age Chris had been when he started racing in the High Sierra Regatta with his father. I was witnessing the proverbial tiller pass from one generation...