We did it!!!!!! Zach and I have qualified for the 2012 US Olympic Team! How exciting is this?! My brother and I representing our country, sponsors, family, team, and yacht club together at the same venue! This has been a long time coming for us two.....
So, lets go back about a month. I headed off to Colorado Springs and trained at our Olympic Training Center for over two weeks. The gym training was extremely demanding, but I had hopes of being physically prepared for a breezy event in Perth. I gained some weight, increased my strength and improved my endurance. I wanted to be in a mindset for the month of November of doing all that I could to have a good worlds.
The training turned out to be amazing and as it looks right now, I will be spending a few weeks there in the upcoming year. I had a great time with the trainers and being around like minded people. I arrived in Australia in the best shape of my life and mentally ready to take on anything.
Luther and I have discussed certain goals that he wanted me to try out at the event. I had one of the strongest qualifying series that I have ever opened an event in. I was fifth going into the Gold Series. I had a strong opening series in the Gold Fleet when we were on the outer course...then we changed areas. I unfortunately struggled with our new course area. I was not able to figure out the proper tactics and strategy around a rock jetty that was in the area. Our last two races of the Gold Series and Medal Race were on this course. SO, I never got the hang of this area, but my scores from the previous racing were so strong that it enabled me to finish third overall.
Now I am in Sydney, Australia with my family. We are all on cloud 9 because of the qualification for my brother and I. Our plan is to tour around the city then head off to the Barrier Reef. We thought that we should take the opportunity to see the country!
It's time for a much needed break and....yippeeee, I'm so excited for it!
Here are some photos from the Worlds:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10100588242693771.2735736.5034252&type=1
Video that shows the team members who have so far qualified for the 2012 US Sailing Olympic Team (it includes my brother and I)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZCnHLip15M
Interview of me after the Medal Race...sometimes luck is all you need!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ws_xjpB5q8U
Video of a race I won at the 2011 ISAF Worlds
http://freezone.iinet.net.au/channels/freezone/sport/perth-sailing/?player=video/10552
Big news as well! Zach and I have currently made headlines in www.si.com/olympics, Tampa Tribune, www.espn.com/olympics WOW what an honor!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Pan American Games and November
I brought home a Bronze for the USA at the Pan American Games. I am very proud that I was able to win the medal for the States. It is also nice to add this to my resume of things that I have done in my sailing career. As I sit and write this I am thinking back of my 2010 season and I have to say that I am extremely proud of what I have been achieving! Lots of improvements in my sailing/weight, psyche, medals, charity (Olivia Lives) etc.
Well, let me tell you about my trip to Mexico (Pan American Games).....it starts with one word: FUN! I had an amazing time competing at the event. I thought that it was very important to have an event where I was more relaxed and focused more on enjoying myself. It has been a very long year with lots of events and I just wanted to go to Mexico and compete with a different mindset. I believe this has rejuvenated my sailing, thus enabling me to be motivated for my upcoming training in Clearwater and Colorado Springs.
I thought Florida had the most extreme humidity, but Mexico has taken it to a whole new level. It was incredibly hot and humid down there. I had to focus on staying hydrated which was actually a very difficult task. I felt like every ounce of liquid I consumed wasn't being absorbed!
The sailing conditions in Mexico were very difficult. It was a max of five knots. I kept thinking to myself, "I sure am happy that I gained weight for Perth! haha." That was the opposite of what I needed in Mexico! I was definitely pushed by all of the competitors to step up my speed and thinking (tactics and strategy) in light air. I started off the event just okay, but I quickly changed some things around and started to see an improvement. I feel that at the event I learned a lot about sea breezes. The wind would begin to fill while we were sailing out and it would not be finished by the time we began racing. This created an unstable racing condition with lots of shifts and changes taking place while racing. Sometimes the changes would be quick or veeerrrryyyy slow! I feel I learned so much and I am very excited to show and talk to Luther about the event. I think we are going to take my sailing to a new level because of the additions that we are going to add to my tactical process. VERY VERY EXCITING!
A third thing that was really fun about Mexico was speaking Spanish. I studied the language for a few years in school and could feel all of my lessons coming back. It has inspired me to become fluent in the language. When I came home I bought some books and audio to aid me in my studies.
So whats the plan for the future? Isabella Bertold (Canada) and coach Luther are coming to Clearwater tomorrow. We are going to do a training camp for the next week. I hope to get some long hours on the water and work on the things that I noticed in Mexico. Im expecting us to be doing 2-3 sessions of working out and sailing a day. It's time to amp things up because Worlds is approaching quickly.
On November 7 I am traveling out to Colorado Springs to get pounded by the trainers. I will be living in the Olympic Training Center for 2 weeks. I am worried that there won't be enough wind in Clearwater which would reduce my hiking endurance. So, I feel that focusing on working out and pushing myself beyond my limits on land will have a positive impact on my hiking fitness. I also want to be in a focused atmosphere where all I think about is training, sailing and improvement. Honestly, when Monday comes around I am going to be a focused, robot, extreme, motivated, disciplined Sailor Paige. I have very high goals set for Worlds and I know that to achieve them I need to start buckling down even more. Luther and I have been working very hard for a long time. We have had some very intense training which has prepared me to endure and raise my level of intensity this month in preparation for Worlds. When the event comes around I will be 100% prepared and confident in the sailor we have created.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Annapolis Boat Show with Sperry Top-Siders, Sunsail and USSTAG Training Camp in Colorado Springs
Hello!!!
It's been a super busy last few weeks. When I came home from San Francisco I focused solely on my fitness. I was in the gym, on my bike (mountain biking) and rock climbing everyday. I believe it is very important to take time outside of sailing to do other activities. My current love is indoor rock climbing, mountain biking and windsurfing. It's nice to get away and be competitive in another sports.
I saw a huge increase in strength and cardio, but I realized that I didn't take enough time to rest. I was so excited to be home that I forgot my body was pretty tired from the time in San Fran. This is one that that I am going to work on....relaxing!
You can view photos of the rock climbing here:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10100449768312541.2714592.5034252&type=1
Last Tuesday I headed off to the Annapolis Boat Show with my brother Zach to meet up with Sperry Top-Siders. We went there to help open a new Sperry store in downtown Annapolis and to introduce the new Seahiker with grip x3. It is a boot that many of the top sailors around the world have been developing with Sperry. Sperry created an amazing boot, but then asked some of the top sailors around the world on how they can improve it. I call it the new "Superboot" because it has been made to perfection.
Anyways, Annapolis was beautiful. Zach and I had a great time walking around the boat show and meeting up with different suppliers/sponsors of ours. I met my friends from Harken and got to have a nice catch up with them. Also, while I was there I was signed by Sunsail and will now be part of the team that my brother has been representing for the last few years. I am very excited about this new partnership and look forward to a successful future with them.
You can view photos from Annapolis here:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10100449783951201.2714596.5034252&type=3
After Annapolis, Zach and I headed off to Colorado Springs to meet up with the US Sailing Team Alphagraphics for a training camp at the US Olympic Complex. I always enjoy these camps because it brings our team together so we can workout, learn and build on our friendships. Physically the camp is very demanding, but it shows areas of our bodies that are weak/strong and things we need to go home and work on.
I learned a large amount of information based on nutrition, media, and training. We had some excellent talks that flooded us with facts and techniques that we could apply to our campaign and bodies. It has motivated me to take my nutrition to the next level. I realized how much of an affect timing, the amount and what I eat will have on my body. I want to promote the maximum amount of muscle growth, so I realized I need to be more diligent.
Photos from our training camp can be viewed here:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10100449811730531.2714600.5034252&type=1
I am only home for one day before I head off to the Pan American Games in Mexico. I am very excited to be competing in the event, but I will be honest and say that I am a little tired of traveling. I am away a lot, but I wouldn't want to be doing anything else. It will be fun to be compete in the event, but the main focus is to defend my title! I will write later on with more details of the event!
I wanted to give a HUGE thanks to all of my sponsors and suppliers. Without them and the US Sailing Team Alphagraphics then none of this would be possible!
It's been a super busy last few weeks. When I came home from San Francisco I focused solely on my fitness. I was in the gym, on my bike (mountain biking) and rock climbing everyday. I believe it is very important to take time outside of sailing to do other activities. My current love is indoor rock climbing, mountain biking and windsurfing. It's nice to get away and be competitive in another sports.
I saw a huge increase in strength and cardio, but I realized that I didn't take enough time to rest. I was so excited to be home that I forgot my body was pretty tired from the time in San Fran. This is one that that I am going to work on....relaxing!
You can view photos of the rock climbing here:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10100449768312541.2714592.5034252&type=1
Last Tuesday I headed off to the Annapolis Boat Show with my brother Zach to meet up with Sperry Top-Siders. We went there to help open a new Sperry store in downtown Annapolis and to introduce the new Seahiker with grip x3. It is a boot that many of the top sailors around the world have been developing with Sperry. Sperry created an amazing boot, but then asked some of the top sailors around the world on how they can improve it. I call it the new "Superboot" because it has been made to perfection.
Anyways, Annapolis was beautiful. Zach and I had a great time walking around the boat show and meeting up with different suppliers/sponsors of ours. I met my friends from Harken and got to have a nice catch up with them. Also, while I was there I was signed by Sunsail and will now be part of the team that my brother has been representing for the last few years. I am very excited about this new partnership and look forward to a successful future with them.
You can view photos from Annapolis here:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10100449783951201.2714596.5034252&type=3
After Annapolis, Zach and I headed off to Colorado Springs to meet up with the US Sailing Team Alphagraphics for a training camp at the US Olympic Complex. I always enjoy these camps because it brings our team together so we can workout, learn and build on our friendships. Physically the camp is very demanding, but it shows areas of our bodies that are weak/strong and things we need to go home and work on.
I learned a large amount of information based on nutrition, media, and training. We had some excellent talks that flooded us with facts and techniques that we could apply to our campaign and bodies. It has motivated me to take my nutrition to the next level. I realized how much of an affect timing, the amount and what I eat will have on my body. I want to promote the maximum amount of muscle growth, so I realized I need to be more diligent.
Photos from our training camp can be viewed here:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10100449811730531.2714600.5034252&type=1
I am only home for one day before I head off to the Pan American Games in Mexico. I am very excited to be competing in the event, but I will be honest and say that I am a little tired of traveling. I am away a lot, but I wouldn't want to be doing anything else. It will be fun to be compete in the event, but the main focus is to defend my title! I will write later on with more details of the event!
I wanted to give a HUGE thanks to all of my sponsors and suppliers. Without them and the US Sailing Team Alphagraphics then none of this would be possible!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
San Francisco Training
Hello Hello!
I just got back from an amazing two weeks of training in San Francisco. It was sooooooo windy there! We had an average of 18-25 knots everyday. We chose this location because Luther and I felt that it would be good training for the ISAF Worlds in Perth, Australia. I know the Worlds are a long way out, but this training gave us a good foundation on things I needed to work on and where I am with my fitness and weight.
The training camp consisted of Luther, myself, Tania (Mexico), and Isabella (Canada). We also had up and coming sailors Christine, Mitchell and Drake join us for a few days. We all have our own specialties so it made conditions ideal for us to learn off one another.
This training camp was extremely demanding physically and mentally. Sailing over a two week period in 18+ knots can become very draining. My goal for the camp was to push myself until the breaking point. I gave 100% everyday on the water. I knew that the harder I worked the better I would do in Perth.
I learned a lot at this camp, but most important I saw that all of the pain, work in the gym, protein shakes galore and food I ate to gain my weight has paid off. It has taken me over two years to gain 22 pounds and I am starting to see results. It all started with the windy day in England. I had some great results in the breeze and since then I have seen improvements. In San Fran, I felt stronger, more powerful and my endurance was better. I feel in complete control of the boat in hiking conditions. I don't struggle anymore when Luther tells me to add something new to my technique. When December comes I am going to be rock solid in my mind and body so I can bring my A game to the Worlds. Luther and I feel I am on the right track and in time I will be 100% ready.
I am currently back in Clearwater, Florida for a little bit of R&R. I am back to my weight/cardio training program, but I have added some fun activities to do rather then sailing. My brother and I went rock climbing on Sunday and will go back Friday night. I am also going to do lots of biking and get out on my windsurfer (if the wind is up). I believe it is important to do other sports besides sailing because it keeps me fresh and wanting to return back to my boat. It also doesn't hurt that you get a workout doing them too.
My life gets very busy next week. I am off to work with Sperry Topsiders and then head to Colorado Springs for a fitness camp with the US Sailing Team Alphagraphics. When I return home I will have one day until I leave for Mexico to compete in the Pan American Games. I will write later with the website and details. The Pan Am Games are every four years and the last time I competed in them was 2007. We were in Rio de Janeiro and I managed to claim the Gold medal. So, I'm going to Mexico to defend my title!
I will take photos of the US Olympic Training facility so you can see what it looks like!
To see photos from the training in San Fran please visit the link:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.210865642313416.56467.134272439972737&type=1
I just got back from an amazing two weeks of training in San Francisco. It was sooooooo windy there! We had an average of 18-25 knots everyday. We chose this location because Luther and I felt that it would be good training for the ISAF Worlds in Perth, Australia. I know the Worlds are a long way out, but this training gave us a good foundation on things I needed to work on and where I am with my fitness and weight.
The training camp consisted of Luther, myself, Tania (Mexico), and Isabella (Canada). We also had up and coming sailors Christine, Mitchell and Drake join us for a few days. We all have our own specialties so it made conditions ideal for us to learn off one another.
This training camp was extremely demanding physically and mentally. Sailing over a two week period in 18+ knots can become very draining. My goal for the camp was to push myself until the breaking point. I gave 100% everyday on the water. I knew that the harder I worked the better I would do in Perth.
I learned a lot at this camp, but most important I saw that all of the pain, work in the gym, protein shakes galore and food I ate to gain my weight has paid off. It has taken me over two years to gain 22 pounds and I am starting to see results. It all started with the windy day in England. I had some great results in the breeze and since then I have seen improvements. In San Fran, I felt stronger, more powerful and my endurance was better. I feel in complete control of the boat in hiking conditions. I don't struggle anymore when Luther tells me to add something new to my technique. When December comes I am going to be rock solid in my mind and body so I can bring my A game to the Worlds. Luther and I feel I am on the right track and in time I will be 100% ready.
I am currently back in Clearwater, Florida for a little bit of R&R. I am back to my weight/cardio training program, but I have added some fun activities to do rather then sailing. My brother and I went rock climbing on Sunday and will go back Friday night. I am also going to do lots of biking and get out on my windsurfer (if the wind is up). I believe it is important to do other sports besides sailing because it keeps me fresh and wanting to return back to my boat. It also doesn't hurt that you get a workout doing them too.
My life gets very busy next week. I am off to work with Sperry Topsiders and then head to Colorado Springs for a fitness camp with the US Sailing Team Alphagraphics. When I return home I will have one day until I leave for Mexico to compete in the Pan American Games. I will write later with the website and details. The Pan Am Games are every four years and the last time I competed in them was 2007. We were in Rio de Janeiro and I managed to claim the Gold medal. So, I'm going to Mexico to defend my title!
I will take photos of the US Olympic Training facility so you can see what it looks like!
To see photos from the training in San Fran please visit the link:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.210865642313416.56467.134272439972737&type=1
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Conclusion Pre-Olympics
Bronze it is!!!!!!!!!!!
I, along with my coach, family and team are soooooo excited about getting a bronze at this event. It's not just the medal that means a lot, it's the fact that I finally had my breakthrough in Weymouth. I have had many mental challenges with this sailing area. I was facing many set backs and constantly fighting the feeling of being disheartened. I felt like I would make progress in one area then find out I was weak in another. It seemed that it was just one thing after another. I kept telling myself to keep strong because I was so close to crossing the line from unlucky to knowing/understanding how to sail here. This is one area where my coach Luther has made a huge impact on me. When he noticed I was feeling a little down he would keep encouraging me, put me back to work, do the task again until I understood, or state the positive out of the situation. This has definitely been a team success because I couldn't of done it without him.
I started the week off just okay. I had many opportunities to have good results, but I would make a tactical error. The tactics are completely different compared to North America. I have had to make some major adjustments with the way I see things and how I would react to them. These type of conditions have always been a weak area of my sailing, so I am really happy to see I am finally conquering them. I believe this Olympics is a huge test for me. It is pushing me both physically and mentally, so if I were to win a Gold next year then it would mean so much more.
Anyways, I did a lot of analyzing of the area, races, my decisions and forced myself to admit and face my mistakes. If I want to learn then I can't run or make excuses for myself. Towards the end of the week I started to feel more and more confident on how to get upwind and in the last few races we saw a major improvement in my tactics.
Going into the last two races I had a 1-4 point lead on the three boats behind me. The forecast was calling for big breeze (18-25) which had me really strung out. Krystal (Aus), Annalise (Ire), and Sari (Fin) all are very impressive in the breeze. Besides Marit (Ned) and Evi (Bel) these three girls are some of my biggest competitors in the wind. The night before I was internally upset that it would be so windy. About 25% of me was wondering how I was going to beat them. After I talked to a friend from home and my brother Zachary, I told myself it was time to stop wondering/doubting and just get to it. I accepted the feelings and let myself realize that this was how I felt...I wasn't going to box it up or push it down (that usually spells disaster).
I believe the crucial part is how you act after the realization of your emotions/thinking. What am I going to do about it? Let them consume me or will I change the way I think and re-act? I believe strongly that we create our own suffering within our minds. So I said, "Paige this is enough," I can't control how others sail/act, but I can control Paige. I went out sailing the next day confident in what I had learned, my fitness, my own sailing abilities and I gave everything I had. I didn't doubt my decisions or how I was hiking upwind. I finished the day with a 1, 1 and had a 30 sec and 1 minute lead in the two races. Those results guaranteed me a bronze and a chance at the silver!
The medal race was so fun! Evi (Bel) and I started out match racing. A foul was called and I managed to position her on the line where I wanted her to start. Evi is a fast sailor and managed to come back which took away my opportunity at a silver. O well! There are more events!
I go home on Monday and I can't wait! I get ten days off where I don't have to sail, train in the gym or be diligent with my eating..........it only took 8 months for me to finally get away from any training. haha. I am taking complete advantage of this opportunity! What should I do??? Lay on the beach one day? Fish with Zach the other? = )
PS Check out my facebook Paige Railey 2012 to see photos from the event.
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.187163551350292.50770.134272439972737
I, along with my coach, family and team are soooooo excited about getting a bronze at this event. It's not just the medal that means a lot, it's the fact that I finally had my breakthrough in Weymouth. I have had many mental challenges with this sailing area. I was facing many set backs and constantly fighting the feeling of being disheartened. I felt like I would make progress in one area then find out I was weak in another. It seemed that it was just one thing after another. I kept telling myself to keep strong because I was so close to crossing the line from unlucky to knowing/understanding how to sail here. This is one area where my coach Luther has made a huge impact on me. When he noticed I was feeling a little down he would keep encouraging me, put me back to work, do the task again until I understood, or state the positive out of the situation. This has definitely been a team success because I couldn't of done it without him.
I started the week off just okay. I had many opportunities to have good results, but I would make a tactical error. The tactics are completely different compared to North America. I have had to make some major adjustments with the way I see things and how I would react to them. These type of conditions have always been a weak area of my sailing, so I am really happy to see I am finally conquering them. I believe this Olympics is a huge test for me. It is pushing me both physically and mentally, so if I were to win a Gold next year then it would mean so much more.
Anyways, I did a lot of analyzing of the area, races, my decisions and forced myself to admit and face my mistakes. If I want to learn then I can't run or make excuses for myself. Towards the end of the week I started to feel more and more confident on how to get upwind and in the last few races we saw a major improvement in my tactics.
Going into the last two races I had a 1-4 point lead on the three boats behind me. The forecast was calling for big breeze (18-25) which had me really strung out. Krystal (Aus), Annalise (Ire), and Sari (Fin) all are very impressive in the breeze. Besides Marit (Ned) and Evi (Bel) these three girls are some of my biggest competitors in the wind. The night before I was internally upset that it would be so windy. About 25% of me was wondering how I was going to beat them. After I talked to a friend from home and my brother Zachary, I told myself it was time to stop wondering/doubting and just get to it. I accepted the feelings and let myself realize that this was how I felt...I wasn't going to box it up or push it down (that usually spells disaster).
I believe the crucial part is how you act after the realization of your emotions/thinking. What am I going to do about it? Let them consume me or will I change the way I think and re-act? I believe strongly that we create our own suffering within our minds. So I said, "Paige this is enough," I can't control how others sail/act, but I can control Paige. I went out sailing the next day confident in what I had learned, my fitness, my own sailing abilities and I gave everything I had. I didn't doubt my decisions or how I was hiking upwind. I finished the day with a 1, 1 and had a 30 sec and 1 minute lead in the two races. Those results guaranteed me a bronze and a chance at the silver!
The medal race was so fun! Evi (Bel) and I started out match racing. A foul was called and I managed to position her on the line where I wanted her to start. Evi is a fast sailor and managed to come back which took away my opportunity at a silver. O well! There are more events!
I go home on Monday and I can't wait! I get ten days off where I don't have to sail, train in the gym or be diligent with my eating..........it only took 8 months for me to finally get away from any training. haha. I am taking complete advantage of this opportunity! What should I do??? Lay on the beach one day? Fish with Zach the other? = )
PS Check out my facebook Paige Railey 2012 to see photos from the event.
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.187163551350292.50770.134272439972737
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Portland International Regatta (Pre-Olympics)
Tomorrow is the first day of racing at the Pre-Olympics. I'm pretty excited to be competing, but a little nervous about the big breeze that we are suppose to be experiencing. It has been a long time since all of us have raced in wind, so hopefully I have done the correct physical training to have me prepared. Luther has full confidence in my physical shape. He's one of my biggest critics, so if he is pumped about my shape then it encourages me to go out and their and give it my all.
I'm going to treat this event just like all the others. One race at a time, focus on the here and now and not worry about the end result. Of course the goal is to walk away winning, but for now my focus is on the present moment. I'm really excited and I can't wait to show the sailing community a part of what I am going to present at the Games.
Our first race is at 12:00 pm. You can follow live tracking, results, tweets etc on these sites.
http://olympics.ussailing.org/
http://www.sailing.org/london2012/2011-test-event.php (this will have the live racing)
I have to go because my physio wants me to take an ice bath....NOT LOOKING FORWARD TO IT!
I'm going to treat this event just like all the others. One race at a time, focus on the here and now and not worry about the end result. Of course the goal is to walk away winning, but for now my focus is on the present moment. I'm really excited and I can't wait to show the sailing community a part of what I am going to present at the Games.
Our first race is at 12:00 pm. You can follow live tracking, results, tweets etc on these sites.
http://olympics.ussailing.org/
http://www.sailing.org/london2012/2011-test-event.php (this will have the live racing)
I have to go because my physio wants me to take an ice bath....NOT LOOKING FORWARD TO IT!
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Training in Weymouth
Hey!
We are getting closer and closer until the first day of the Pre-Olympics. Everything around the sailing venue is changing and getting ready for the upcoming event. We now have credentials that allows only the athletes and staff allowed into the regatta area. The staging areas are set which means every sailor from their given country rig up in the same area as their fellow team mates. I am currently getting USA and American Flags plastered everywhere on my boat.
It's really exciting to be a part of this event. It's pretty much a mach Olympics and as far as I can tell everyone is treating it as though it is the Games.
Lets rewind a little bit. I have been here since the 21st training. The wind has been unusually light which is good because it has given Luther and I the chance to work on some of my main weaknesses. I have been struggling all year in moderate conditions (6-10 knots, choppy waves). Luther and I have made it a main goal to improve in this condition and lately we have been seeing some dramatic changes.
Today I sailed with Sara Winther from NZL. I believe she is one of the fastest girls upwind in these conditions so I was glad to be able to compare my technique. Luther and I have noticed a positive progression and I am happy/proud to say that I was keeping pace with her today. She is very talented and to be able to compete against her in this is very good.
Honestly my days have been very monotonous. Meaning, I wake up, read the forecast, eat breakfast, go sailing, go to the gym, eat dinner, do computer work and sleep. I guess it looks kind of boring, but thats my life and I love it. Hopefully I will see all this hard work pay off in the upcoming event.
I will write later on in the week with all the details on the regatta and my mental/physical readiness and preparation!
PS sorry if my grammar and punctuation is a bit off today. Chris, my trainer has just finished killing me in the gym. My head is not completely here right now!
We are getting closer and closer until the first day of the Pre-Olympics. Everything around the sailing venue is changing and getting ready for the upcoming event. We now have credentials that allows only the athletes and staff allowed into the regatta area. The staging areas are set which means every sailor from their given country rig up in the same area as their fellow team mates. I am currently getting USA and American Flags plastered everywhere on my boat.
It's really exciting to be a part of this event. It's pretty much a mach Olympics and as far as I can tell everyone is treating it as though it is the Games.
Lets rewind a little bit. I have been here since the 21st training. The wind has been unusually light which is good because it has given Luther and I the chance to work on some of my main weaknesses. I have been struggling all year in moderate conditions (6-10 knots, choppy waves). Luther and I have made it a main goal to improve in this condition and lately we have been seeing some dramatic changes.
Today I sailed with Sara Winther from NZL. I believe she is one of the fastest girls upwind in these conditions so I was glad to be able to compare my technique. Luther and I have noticed a positive progression and I am happy/proud to say that I was keeping pace with her today. She is very talented and to be able to compete against her in this is very good.
Honestly my days have been very monotonous. Meaning, I wake up, read the forecast, eat breakfast, go sailing, go to the gym, eat dinner, do computer work and sleep. I guess it looks kind of boring, but thats my life and I love it. Hopefully I will see all this hard work pay off in the upcoming event.
I will write later on in the week with all the details on the regatta and my mental/physical readiness and preparation!
PS sorry if my grammar and punctuation is a bit off today. Chris, my trainer has just finished killing me in the gym. My head is not completely here right now!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Weymouth, England
Hey Everyone!
I'm writing you from the team shed as I lay on the ground with my legs elevated and in the Normatec compression boots. I'm trying to help speed up the process of recovery so I can be ready for another day of training with my coach Luther Carpenter and training partner Isabella Bertold from Canada.
I arrived four days ago and was greeted with typical English weather: rain, clouds and cold weather. It's been up and down since then, but it's bearable. Yesterday was my first day in the boat and if any of you saw my tweets then you already know that it was a long day and pretty hard because it was windy and new hiking pants. They were a bit too slippery which made hiking much harder because I couldn't grip the boat. This made my back pretty sore today, but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger?! After sailing I had a gym session in the team shed. It was really cool because Chris our trainer is here to help us with our workouts. It's pretty hard because he is watching our every move making sure we are working hard and have good form.
Today, I helped load up a container with three 49ers, a motorboat and two lasers. It took a lot longer then we expected so we couldn't make it out sailing. What did that mean? no sailing=kill yourself in the gym. I started off with a bike and the minute I stepped off Chris was ready to work me with the weights. It was a great session, but hard (hint as to why I am sitting in the compression boots).
Tomorrow we are sailing at 11 and then gym at night. This is pretty much what my days are going to look like until August 2. My event for the Pre-Olympics stars on August 5th. It just hit me the other day that I am sailing in the Pre-Olymps. This is pretty big and I'm getting quite excited for it. I can't wait to represent myself, country, federation, yacht club, sponsors and family at this event. I'll do my best, but all I can focus on right now is getting myself mentally and physically prepared.
Sign up for my twitter PaigeSailor or facebook page Paige Railey 2012 to see the photos I upload daily. They are on the wall represented by a link that takes you to the webpage so you can view it.
I'm writing you from the team shed as I lay on the ground with my legs elevated and in the Normatec compression boots. I'm trying to help speed up the process of recovery so I can be ready for another day of training with my coach Luther Carpenter and training partner Isabella Bertold from Canada.
I arrived four days ago and was greeted with typical English weather: rain, clouds and cold weather. It's been up and down since then, but it's bearable. Yesterday was my first day in the boat and if any of you saw my tweets then you already know that it was a long day and pretty hard because it was windy and new hiking pants. They were a bit too slippery which made hiking much harder because I couldn't grip the boat. This made my back pretty sore today, but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger?! After sailing I had a gym session in the team shed. It was really cool because Chris our trainer is here to help us with our workouts. It's pretty hard because he is watching our every move making sure we are working hard and have good form.
Today, I helped load up a container with three 49ers, a motorboat and two lasers. It took a lot longer then we expected so we couldn't make it out sailing. What did that mean? no sailing=kill yourself in the gym. I started off with a bike and the minute I stepped off Chris was ready to work me with the weights. It was a great session, but hard (hint as to why I am sitting in the compression boots).
Tomorrow we are sailing at 11 and then gym at night. This is pretty much what my days are going to look like until August 2. My event for the Pre-Olympics stars on August 5th. It just hit me the other day that I am sailing in the Pre-Olymps. This is pretty big and I'm getting quite excited for it. I can't wait to represent myself, country, federation, yacht club, sponsors and family at this event. I'll do my best, but all I can focus on right now is getting myself mentally and physically prepared.
Sign up for my twitter PaigeSailor or facebook page Paige Railey 2012 to see the photos I upload daily. They are on the wall represented by a link that takes you to the webpage so you can view it.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Hunter-Gatherer Time
This break has been one of the best things for me mentally and physically. It has been refreshing in all ways! This year has been based around sailing, working out and gaining weight so it's really nice to do something else. I have to admit that I am really missing being out in my boat because sailing is a part of me. It has made me into the person I am today and has changed/taught me many things in my life.
So, what am I up to now?! In my last blog I had visited Lauderdale and Key West, but now I am in the Bahamas. I had an old friend ask me to join a bunch of friends and family on a vacation. It's been a blast catching up and meeting new people. It's been so crazy! Everything that I have been doing has been on a whim and I have to admit that I love it.
The trip started out by taking an 8 hour boat trip from Florida to Guana (Bahama Island). There was a variety of conditions, but all in all it was a fun ride. When we arrived to the island we were greeted by a beautiful house...perfect island decor (white pristine walls, pool, starfish, coral, and flowers everywhere!) We headed off to dinner at a local eatery and then went to bed. We woke up to a bright sun, turquoise water and warm weather. Only one word can describe it: PERFECT!
So, whats the deal with the title of this blog? Well, thats exactly what we have done...gone back to the old days where you hunt your own food. I learned how to clean conch and make a ceviche salad with the meat. Besides that we have been fishing, snorkeling and lounging around...well not completely for me. I have been diligent about working out here, eventhough the heat makes it ten times harder. One of the coolest things about the training is I have been put through boot camp! One of the guys here is part of the Airforce so he has taken me through some of his workouts. I thought I would give it a try, but little did I know that I would end up pushing a golf cart up a hill, carrying a 190 pounds person on my back and squating sand bags. Pain is temporary, but glory is forever right?! LOL
Well, England is coming soon, but honeslty I am still going to enjoy my last few days before it's back to work!
So, what am I up to now?! In my last blog I had visited Lauderdale and Key West, but now I am in the Bahamas. I had an old friend ask me to join a bunch of friends and family on a vacation. It's been a blast catching up and meeting new people. It's been so crazy! Everything that I have been doing has been on a whim and I have to admit that I love it.
The trip started out by taking an 8 hour boat trip from Florida to Guana (Bahama Island). There was a variety of conditions, but all in all it was a fun ride. When we arrived to the island we were greeted by a beautiful house...perfect island decor (white pristine walls, pool, starfish, coral, and flowers everywhere!) We headed off to dinner at a local eatery and then went to bed. We woke up to a bright sun, turquoise water and warm weather. Only one word can describe it: PERFECT!
So, whats the deal with the title of this blog? Well, thats exactly what we have done...gone back to the old days where you hunt your own food. I learned how to clean conch and make a ceviche salad with the meat. Besides that we have been fishing, snorkeling and lounging around...well not completely for me. I have been diligent about working out here, eventhough the heat makes it ten times harder. One of the coolest things about the training is I have been put through boot camp! One of the guys here is part of the Airforce so he has taken me through some of his workouts. I thought I would give it a try, but little did I know that I would end up pushing a golf cart up a hill, carrying a 190 pounds person on my back and squating sand bags. Pain is temporary, but glory is forever right?! LOL
Well, England is coming soon, but honeslty I am still going to enjoy my last few days before it's back to work!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Vacation Time!
Hey!!!!
Life has been so relaxing!!! It sure has been a while since I have had a break. We worked so hard in Europe and I was looking forward to being home in Florida. Of course my sailing objectives are still in place.....train in the gym and gain weight, which I must say is going quite well so far. I have put on the weight that I lost from being ill and a bit more. This makes me pretty excited to go back to Weymouth and hopefully bring it in the breeze!
Anyways, lets talk about my other life...my non sailing life. I returned home to a happy family and twin! I missed them all so it was amazing to see them again. I went shopping, hung out and gossiped with Brooke. It's always great to catch up with her.
On another note, Sarah Lihan and I have really bonded over the last few years. So, when I came home I told her that I would drive down to visit her. I packed up the car and off I went to Southern Florida. We trained together (which was a blast) and went out and explored the area. It is truly beautiful down here.The next day I decided to go to the Florida Keys where I celebrated the fourth with my family (which I haven't done since I was 13). I truly love the warm weather, turquoise water, fishing and swimming here in Florida. I will post some photos up in about 2 weeks.
This has been a great re-booster on my energy and I am motivated to get back sailing. Two more weeks and its back to the boat...and I can't wait!
I leave for England on July 20th and will begin training on the 24th. Next regatta: PRE-OLYMPICS!!!
Life has been so relaxing!!! It sure has been a while since I have had a break. We worked so hard in Europe and I was looking forward to being home in Florida. Of course my sailing objectives are still in place.....train in the gym and gain weight, which I must say is going quite well so far. I have put on the weight that I lost from being ill and a bit more. This makes me pretty excited to go back to Weymouth and hopefully bring it in the breeze!
Anyways, lets talk about my other life...my non sailing life. I returned home to a happy family and twin! I missed them all so it was amazing to see them again. I went shopping, hung out and gossiped with Brooke. It's always great to catch up with her.
On another note, Sarah Lihan and I have really bonded over the last few years. So, when I came home I told her that I would drive down to visit her. I packed up the car and off I went to Southern Florida. We trained together (which was a blast) and went out and explored the area. It is truly beautiful down here.The next day I decided to go to the Florida Keys where I celebrated the fourth with my family (which I haven't done since I was 13). I truly love the warm weather, turquoise water, fishing and swimming here in Florida. I will post some photos up in about 2 weeks.
This has been a great re-booster on my energy and I am motivated to get back sailing. Two more weeks and its back to the boat...and I can't wait!
I leave for England on July 20th and will begin training on the 24th. Next regatta: PRE-OLYMPICS!!!
Monday, June 27, 2011
Olivia Lives
Today was an amazing day! Olivia Lives Foundation hosted a day at Clearwater Yacht Club for 20 children that have been inflicted with cancer or blood diseases. They are all in remission right now which is a true blessing and it made me so glad to hear it. This is the second year that Olivia Lives has hosted this event for the children.
If you do not know what Olivia Lives is then please check out the website or facebook page. www.olivialives.com. The Ceraolo family (Olivias family), my family, and the Widger family decided to start Olivia Lives in honor of my dear friend Olivia who died of a rare form of cancer at such a young age. We want to help other children out in any way we can. Along with cancer patients we work with the local homeless shelters. We believe strongly in aiding our community and other people in need. We are all very fortunate to be healthy, so I feel it is important to give back.
The day started off with taking them out for a ride on the motorboats. I took a group of girls out, while my friend Jackie took the boys out on his boat. For some of them it was the first time they were ever on a boat. I let all of the girls drive which they all enjoyed. Some went in a straight line and fast while others did so many circles that they made the others feel dizzy.
When we came back in it was lunch time so we all sat around and talked. This was where I learned how strong they all were. They were very open about their cancer stories. They all endured the most aggressive chemio and radiation therapies. It was so sad to hear about their struggles, but they were all so strong. They fought so hard. One girl I met was told that she was going to die four different times by her doctor and now she is in remission! It made me so grateful for my health and motivated me even more to want to help others. I respect the kids I met today and would love to one day be as great as a role model to others as they are to me.
After lunch we went fishing and swimming. Fishing was a blast because angler Zach was helping everyone to catch a fish. It was soo cool!!! We took more photos and then everyone headed home.
No matter what you do or where you live everyone can help. You can start by helping us with Olivia Lives or doing small things in your own community. Please check out our website or you can even write me. I am currently donating 10% of my bonuses to the National Sarcoma Foundation. If you would like to help then please let me know.
I have posted photos onto my facebook Paige Railey 2012 site...Please check them out.
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.167994969933817.46547.134272439972737
If you do not know what Olivia Lives is then please check out the website or facebook page. www.olivialives.com. The Ceraolo family (Olivias family), my family, and the Widger family decided to start Olivia Lives in honor of my dear friend Olivia who died of a rare form of cancer at such a young age. We want to help other children out in any way we can. Along with cancer patients we work with the local homeless shelters. We believe strongly in aiding our community and other people in need. We are all very fortunate to be healthy, so I feel it is important to give back.
The day started off with taking them out for a ride on the motorboats. I took a group of girls out, while my friend Jackie took the boys out on his boat. For some of them it was the first time they were ever on a boat. I let all of the girls drive which they all enjoyed. Some went in a straight line and fast while others did so many circles that they made the others feel dizzy.
When we came back in it was lunch time so we all sat around and talked. This was where I learned how strong they all were. They were very open about their cancer stories. They all endured the most aggressive chemio and radiation therapies. It was so sad to hear about their struggles, but they were all so strong. They fought so hard. One girl I met was told that she was going to die four different times by her doctor and now she is in remission! It made me so grateful for my health and motivated me even more to want to help others. I respect the kids I met today and would love to one day be as great as a role model to others as they are to me.
After lunch we went fishing and swimming. Fishing was a blast because angler Zach was helping everyone to catch a fish. It was soo cool!!! We took more photos and then everyone headed home.
No matter what you do or where you live everyone can help. You can start by helping us with Olivia Lives or doing small things in your own community. Please check out our website or you can even write me. I am currently donating 10% of my bonuses to the National Sarcoma Foundation. If you would like to help then please let me know.
I have posted photos onto my facebook Paige Railey 2012 site...Please check them out.
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.167994969933817.46547.134272439972737
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Kieler Woche Conclusion
I set three goals and I accomplished them...
I am proud to say that I just won the Kieler Woche in Kiel, Germany and finished third in the ISAF World Cup. This is the third consecutive year for winning the regatta in Kiel. One of the coolest parts about winning this event is your name gets put up on a wall that shows all of the past winners. It's nice to be apart of history.
I have to say that I really wanted to win the ISAF World Cup this year, but after being ill at the last two events I had to change directions. I am very proud to of put together a good event here to bring my standings back up. It was hard to have two bad events in a row and see my standing drop from 1st to out of the top 5. It was a great learning experience because it taught me to change gears and get going on the new track.
The regatta was very tough, because we were dealt trying conditions. Big breeze, cold water/temperature, rain, sun, etc. It seems we had it all. This had to of been one of the most fun events that I have sailed in this year. I roomed with my brother Zach and team mate Caleb Paine. We pretty much laughed the whole time. At the beginning the three of us were in complete shock that we were sailing another event. It didn't feel like we had any break.
I thought that during the event I had great upwind speed/tactics, but I thought my downwinds were lacking. This is something that Luther and I will work on in the upcoming training. I noticed that I was never really in the right place for the oncoming puffs.
Tina Mihelic and Krystal Weir placed 3rd and 2nd in the event. It was very close amongst us three, the German and Belarussian team. I had a blast sailing against them all and noticed things that I need to work on such as my downwinds. I believe many of them are heading off to the Europeans in Helsinki, Finland. So good luck to them all and hopefully Tina can capture her third European title.
Tina Mihelic and Krystal Weir placed 3rd and 2nd in the event. It was very close amongst us three, the German and Belarussian team. I had a blast sailing against them all and noticed things that I need to work on such as my downwinds. I believe many of them are heading off to the Europeans in Helsinki, Finland. So good luck to them all and hopefully Tina can capture her third European title.
Tomorrow I go home and I am sooooo excited. I can't wait to go back and relax...I'm pretty tired physically and mentally. It's time for a little break......but not from the gym!
Friday, June 17, 2011
Kieler Woche
Time for last event of the ISAF Sailing World Cup. I'm here in Kiel, Germany getting ready for another windy event. Our meteorologist is predicting the wind to be 15-25 knots for the whole event. It has begun to rain on and off and the temperature is dropping.
Yesterday I had my first day off....it consisted of sleeping all day! I'm feeling a lot better and refreshed after the stomach bug. Zach and I are going to register our boats and get them ready for the event, but I don't think we are going to sail today. The weather looks a bit rough.
This event is big for me because I would like to qualify for funding for the US Sailing Team Alphagraphics and I would like to finish 3rd in the ISAF Sailing World Cup. AND honestly, I would like to redeem myself after my finishes/bloopers in Weymouth and Hyeres. = )
You can view the results at:
http://www.kieler-woche.de/eng/englishdefault.php
Yesterday I had my first day off....it consisted of sleeping all day! I'm feeling a lot better and refreshed after the stomach bug. Zach and I are going to register our boats and get them ready for the event, but I don't think we are going to sail today. The weather looks a bit rough.
This event is big for me because I would like to qualify for funding for the US Sailing Team Alphagraphics and I would like to finish 3rd in the ISAF Sailing World Cup. AND honestly, I would like to redeem myself after my finishes/bloopers in Weymouth and Hyeres. = )
You can view the results at:
http://www.kieler-woche.de/eng/englishdefault.php
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
A huge eye opener
I am writing this blog in a state of aggravation and disappointment that I feel towards myself.
I opened up Sail For Gold with a bang and positioned myself to make an attack in the Gold Fleet. All was going great until the third day into the event. I managed to get a stomach bug that made me extremely ill. I was up all night sick and was worried that I wasn't going to make it out for the fourth day of racing. I had my mom, dad, and brother up at 3 am trying to help me. We were worried that if I went to the ER that they wouldn't release me. So, I just toughed it out and forced myself to go sailing the next day. I had terrible results, but that was expected.
Luther helped me out a lot by rigging my boat and helping me take it to and from the ramp. I was so weak and tired. So a big thanks goes out to him. He went above and beyond for me at this event.
My goal for the last two days was strictly damage control. I wanted to do as best as I could to keep points on the talented Erika Reineke. This was the first part of my trials and knowing how good of a sailor Erika is I knew I had to keep going. I finished the event in 14 (30 positions ahead of Erika) thus giving me a comfortable lead on hopefully winning these trials.
I have achieved my goal at starting trials off good, but I am upset with my position. Luther and I saw huge improvements in my sailing, but the result doesn't show it. This regatta has been a huge awakening for me because this is the second event in a row that I have gotten a stomach bug. First it was the regatta in France and now in England. It has made me take a look at the things I am doing and reconsider. I am going to make some drastic changes because what I am doing now is not working. There is no point to do all of this training to then go get sick during the events.
Since I have a very sensitive stomach, I need to become more strict with what I eat along with many other things. Maybe this is what I needed...a little bit of shock to show me that I need to change. But, it's always disappointing when you have two events in a row go bad.
Okay, onto a more positive note. Tomorrow, I leave for Germany to sail the Kieler Woche. I want this to be my turn around event. I am going to try very hard to rest for now, get all my energy back (because I still feel very weak) and get ready to sail the event. I want this one to go well and I will do all I can to make it happen.
The regatta starts Saturday, I will write with more later on in the week.
I opened up Sail For Gold with a bang and positioned myself to make an attack in the Gold Fleet. All was going great until the third day into the event. I managed to get a stomach bug that made me extremely ill. I was up all night sick and was worried that I wasn't going to make it out for the fourth day of racing. I had my mom, dad, and brother up at 3 am trying to help me. We were worried that if I went to the ER that they wouldn't release me. So, I just toughed it out and forced myself to go sailing the next day. I had terrible results, but that was expected.
Luther helped me out a lot by rigging my boat and helping me take it to and from the ramp. I was so weak and tired. So a big thanks goes out to him. He went above and beyond for me at this event.
My goal for the last two days was strictly damage control. I wanted to do as best as I could to keep points on the talented Erika Reineke. This was the first part of my trials and knowing how good of a sailor Erika is I knew I had to keep going. I finished the event in 14 (30 positions ahead of Erika) thus giving me a comfortable lead on hopefully winning these trials.
I have achieved my goal at starting trials off good, but I am upset with my position. Luther and I saw huge improvements in my sailing, but the result doesn't show it. This regatta has been a huge awakening for me because this is the second event in a row that I have gotten a stomach bug. First it was the regatta in France and now in England. It has made me take a look at the things I am doing and reconsider. I am going to make some drastic changes because what I am doing now is not working. There is no point to do all of this training to then go get sick during the events.
Since I have a very sensitive stomach, I need to become more strict with what I eat along with many other things. Maybe this is what I needed...a little bit of shock to show me that I need to change. But, it's always disappointing when you have two events in a row go bad.
Okay, onto a more positive note. Tomorrow, I leave for Germany to sail the Kieler Woche. I want this to be my turn around event. I am going to try very hard to rest for now, get all my energy back (because I still feel very weak) and get ready to sail the event. I want this one to go well and I will do all I can to make it happen.
The regatta starts Saturday, I will write with more later on in the week.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Trials Part 1
Hey Everyone!
The training here in Weymouth was back breaking. Luther and I did some quality sailing in big breeze. The second week of the training dealt with tactics. Our main focus was to figure out the different tactical situations that this venue has to offer. It's not easy here. I feel that I have learned a lot about the wind, but still need some work.
Tomorrow starts the Sail for Gold Regatta here. It is the first part of our trials to go the Olympics. Our trials is a point system based from two events: Sail for Gold and ISAF Worlds in Perth. Whatever place you finish is the number of points you get. So to make it easy if I got a 1, 1 at both events then I finish our trials with two points which would lead to me qualifying for the team.
So how do I feel now that trials is here? Im actually pretty relaxed. I'm not getting too stressed out about it. I learned a lot from my first trials in 2007 and will apply that knowledge to this event. I am going to take it one race at a time and keep fighting to the end. My main goal is to not get too wrapped up in the thought process that this is the trials! this is the Olympic venue! etc. I'm going to keeps things basic and focus on the here and now.
I will be sending twitter updates and hopefully I can write a blog during the event. If you don't have my twitter then it's PaigeSailor or you can also view updates on my facebook page: Paige Railey 2012. The website to the event is: http://www.skandiasailforgoldregatta.co.uk/
Talk soon!
The training here in Weymouth was back breaking. Luther and I did some quality sailing in big breeze. The second week of the training dealt with tactics. Our main focus was to figure out the different tactical situations that this venue has to offer. It's not easy here. I feel that I have learned a lot about the wind, but still need some work.
Tomorrow starts the Sail for Gold Regatta here. It is the first part of our trials to go the Olympics. Our trials is a point system based from two events: Sail for Gold and ISAF Worlds in Perth. Whatever place you finish is the number of points you get. So to make it easy if I got a 1, 1 at both events then I finish our trials with two points which would lead to me qualifying for the team.
So how do I feel now that trials is here? Im actually pretty relaxed. I'm not getting too stressed out about it. I learned a lot from my first trials in 2007 and will apply that knowledge to this event. I am going to take it one race at a time and keep fighting to the end. My main goal is to not get too wrapped up in the thought process that this is the trials! this is the Olympic venue! etc. I'm going to keeps things basic and focus on the here and now.
I will be sending twitter updates and hopefully I can write a blog during the event. If you don't have my twitter then it's PaigeSailor or you can also view updates on my facebook page: Paige Railey 2012. The website to the event is: http://www.skandiasailforgoldregatta.co.uk/
Talk soon!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Weymouth Training
Hello Hello!
Currently I am in Weymouth, England doing lots of hard core training. Luther and I have been sailing with one of the US Sailing Development Team sailors Mitchell Kiss. We have also been joined by a sailor named Isabella Bertold from Canada. It has been a blast sailing with these two. Mitchell, only being 16, has great potential to be a top rated sailor in the world. He is currently training to win the Gold medal at the ISAF Youth Worlds and I have complete faith in him. I really enjoyed having him around and I am looking forward to future training sessions with him.
So, let me tell you about the conditions we have had here! The sun is occasional, but very pleasant when it decides to show its face and it's been windy. Very windy...I am very happy about this, because I feel this is the perfect way to get in really good shape before the event. Our goal is to work super hard on the water so my hiking legs can be built up for the event.
We just did a 5 day stretch of long hours on the water. My body was definitely stiff when I woke up this morning so I decided to take the day off. I went into town with the idea of buying a sweater...but I ended up buying more then I set out for. A top, shorts, dress etc. lol
I am currently staying in a new apartment complex and I love it! I have allergies and Weymouth seems to have everything that can get them flared up. So, this apartment has been great in shielding me from all the problems.
I'll keep writing with more updates.
Currently I am in Weymouth, England doing lots of hard core training. Luther and I have been sailing with one of the US Sailing Development Team sailors Mitchell Kiss. We have also been joined by a sailor named Isabella Bertold from Canada. It has been a blast sailing with these two. Mitchell, only being 16, has great potential to be a top rated sailor in the world. He is currently training to win the Gold medal at the ISAF Youth Worlds and I have complete faith in him. I really enjoyed having him around and I am looking forward to future training sessions with him.
So, let me tell you about the conditions we have had here! The sun is occasional, but very pleasant when it decides to show its face and it's been windy. Very windy...I am very happy about this, because I feel this is the perfect way to get in really good shape before the event. Our goal is to work super hard on the water so my hiking legs can be built up for the event.
We just did a 5 day stretch of long hours on the water. My body was definitely stiff when I woke up this morning so I decided to take the day off. I went into town with the idea of buying a sweater...but I ended up buying more then I set out for. A top, shorts, dress etc. lol
I am currently staying in a new apartment complex and I love it! I have allergies and Weymouth seems to have everything that can get them flared up. So, this apartment has been great in shielding me from all the problems.
I'll keep writing with more updates.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Conclusion of Trip 1
The SOF regatta didn't end so well for me. I had the worst luck that I have experienced this year. If I went right, the wind went left or if I started at the pin then the boat was favorite. It was just one of those events. Luther and I both feel that we learned a lot and have seen improvement in my sailing even though the result might not of shown it. Guess you can't do good in them all!
It's all about bouncing back now, but during the event it was a true test of character for me. It was definitely tough and very frustrating at times, but I kept pushing through. No matter what place I was, I never gave up. I will be honest and say that it sure is hard to keep going everyday when everything seems to keep going against you, but it's the only way to learn and get stronger both mentally and physically.
Luther was a great help for me there. After a tough day he would help me de-rig so I could change. It was very nice of him and it was a small gesture that showed how strong our team was. It helped re-amp me to go out fighting again.
The first 4 months of this season have been great. I have managed out of the five events results of a 1, 1, 1, 4, 13. The results are good, but the amount of things I have learned are the best part about it.
For the next two weeks I am going to kill myself in the gym. I want to really push myself mentally through lots of pain. Trials is coming up and I want to be ready. I know the last event was tough, but I have complete confidence/trust in myself, training, and coach that all is going to be just fine.
Take a look a video that was posted of me:
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=2026826713660
Take a look a video that was posted of me:
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=2026826713660
Sunday, April 24, 2011
1st day SOF Regatta
Breezy conditions today! I had a 7, 8 which is pretty consistent. It's a good way to start the event, but I definitely want to improve tomorrow.
My biggest downfall today dealt with my starts. I kept getting shot out the back...I just lined up too close to the boat to leeward of me thus resulting in a bad start. I did my best to catch-up, but was stuck in the positions of 5-10. It was very hard to pass from them.
Luther and I were happy with the results, but have discussed things that I will work on for tomorrow and for the future. It's suppose to be light air tomorrow, but I want to keep the things I thought were my weaknesses in my head so I can take them to training to improve them.
Tomorrow we start at 9.30 (YIKES THAT IS SOOOO EARLY!) So keep checking the results!
My biggest downfall today dealt with my starts. I kept getting shot out the back...I just lined up too close to the boat to leeward of me thus resulting in a bad start. I did my best to catch-up, but was stuck in the positions of 5-10. It was very hard to pass from them.
Luther and I were happy with the results, but have discussed things that I will work on for tomorrow and for the future. It's suppose to be light air tomorrow, but I want to keep the things I thought were my weaknesses in my head so I can take them to training to improve them.
Tomorrow we start at 9.30 (YIKES THAT IS SOOOO EARLY!) So keep checking the results!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Hyeres, France
The fourth stop of the ISAF World Sailing Cup is here = )
I've been doing training with Luther over the past couple of days. We have been very careful to not over do it since I have been ill with some kind of food/water sickness. The training has consisted of two hours that are very intense. The last few days have been pretty windy. We focused mainly on my boat handling and short course racing with a lot of boats. It's been really fun and I have really enjoyed sailing with all the girls! I actually managed to round the windward mark, drop my tiller and take out the whole fleet! That takes some serious skills to mess up all 20 boats you're competing against! hehe.
Now, I am going to take a few days off and get rested up for the event. Racing starts on the 24th and you can view the results/regatta website at http://sof.ffvoile.net/.
I hear that I am on the same course as my brother!!!! That's going to be soooooo much fun. We will be able to share information and see first hand how each other sail.
I've been doing training with Luther over the past couple of days. We have been very careful to not over do it since I have been ill with some kind of food/water sickness. The training has consisted of two hours that are very intense. The last few days have been pretty windy. We focused mainly on my boat handling and short course racing with a lot of boats. It's been really fun and I have really enjoyed sailing with all the girls! I actually managed to round the windward mark, drop my tiller and take out the whole fleet! That takes some serious skills to mess up all 20 boats you're competing against! hehe.
Now, I am going to take a few days off and get rested up for the event. Racing starts on the 24th and you can view the results/regatta website at http://sof.ffvoile.net/.
I hear that I am on the same course as my brother!!!! That's going to be soooooo much fun. We will be able to share information and see first hand how each other sail.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Vacation Europe!
It’s been since 2007 since I have been in Hyeres France, but first let me tell you about vacation time! A group of friends and I went traveling around Southern Europe. It was so much fun. We first started off our trip in Monaco. That has to be the wealthiest country I have ever seen. Driving around in a Bentley or Ferrari was common. Guess you can say that my 2005 Fiat Ducato with neon flower stickers and peace symbols didn’t quite fit in. = ) One of the prettiest things about the country was it was all based on a mountain. Housing extended to the top of the mountain that overlooked the super yachts in the marina.
Next, we headed off to Venice, Italy. We stayed in the middle of town where all the locals lived. It was nice to be there because it got us away from all of the tourist, which there were billions of. We visited everywhere ranging from the famous piazzas to local palaces. It was so unique since the city is located on a canal system. Instead of taking a bus to get around you instead rode a water bus. The highlight of the trip was going to the opera. We went to a palace where a live opera was performed in all the different rooms. It was very up-close and personal. I loved it!
We attempted to find a place in Milan, Italy, but the housing was too expensive. So, my wise brother said he found a place on his GPS, but it ended up being 2 hours away. We raced our way down at 1 in the morning to Genova where we were confronted by the local gang. HMMMM, don’t think we will be going back there anytime soon. It was a beautiful city, but we just saw some different aspects of it.
Now when I’m supposed to start training again I decide to get food poisoning. Yippee! I’ve been sailing some, but I was weakened by the ordeal. Luther and my goal is to take it easy and not go too hard since the SOF regatta will be starting soon.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Princess Sofia Regatta
Hello!!
3rd stop on the ISAF World Cup is done...I finished fourth which I am pretty happy about.
I started the event off with a bang. I was extremely consistent with finishing 2nd in the first four races...but then things started to change.
First, I did something that I find quite amusing. I didn't make the time limit in one of the races. HAHA! The leader of the regatta got stuck in no wind and couldn't finish. It was pretty funny to me, but not my coach!
Second, I managed to mount the pin and get stuck on a chain link anchor line. I thought to myself, "O NO, but boat!" I came out of it without a scratch and actually managed to win the race. I was completely lucky! I wish I could say it was skill. I remember sailing the race and saying to myself, "Is this one of those events where I can't do anything wrong? Where everything happens to go my way?" Was I ever wrong!
I then had two races where I struggled with the wind. I couldn't figure out how to tactically go upwind which resulted in me getting a 24 and a 28. Those two races were the majority of the points I earned for the whole event and resulted in me dropping out of first.
I was pretty disheartened after the second bad race, but I pushed through it. I ended the event with a 4 which I am really happy about. This proves to me that when things start getting tough that I can hang on and not do anything drastic to get it back on track. I feel that this was a huge turning point in my sailing.
Now, Im off to Hyeres, France!!!!
3rd stop on the ISAF World Cup is done...I finished fourth which I am pretty happy about.
I started the event off with a bang. I was extremely consistent with finishing 2nd in the first four races...but then things started to change.
First, I did something that I find quite amusing. I didn't make the time limit in one of the races. HAHA! The leader of the regatta got stuck in no wind and couldn't finish. It was pretty funny to me, but not my coach!
Second, I managed to mount the pin and get stuck on a chain link anchor line. I thought to myself, "O NO, but boat!" I came out of it without a scratch and actually managed to win the race. I was completely lucky! I wish I could say it was skill. I remember sailing the race and saying to myself, "Is this one of those events where I can't do anything wrong? Where everything happens to go my way?" Was I ever wrong!
I then had two races where I struggled with the wind. I couldn't figure out how to tactically go upwind which resulted in me getting a 24 and a 28. Those two races were the majority of the points I earned for the whole event and resulted in me dropping out of first.
I was pretty disheartened after the second bad race, but I pushed through it. I ended the event with a 4 which I am really happy about. This proves to me that when things start getting tough that I can hang on and not do anything drastic to get it back on track. I feel that this was a huge turning point in my sailing.
Now, Im off to Hyeres, France!!!!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Palma De Mallorca
Hello from Palma de Mallorca, Spain!
I just arrived here yesterday and I am currently taking the day off to recover from jet lag. It was kind of an interesting trip…I managed to miss one of my connecting flights, which resulted in then having my bags lost because of the ordeal.
For the last month and a half I have been doing lots of training. In February, I sailed in two events: the Laser Radial North Americans in Ft. Lauderdale and the Midwinters East in Clearwater, Florida. I won both of them which was really nice. The most beneficial thing I can take from those two months dealt with my big breeze sailing. I have been very light for the last two years because I was doing so much schoolwork and sailing. This made it impossible for me to gain weight. Since I graduated, I have been able to focus completely on my body and sailing. My strength and endurance has increased thus helping me hike harder and longer. This is definitely due to the gym work, but also having Luther Carpenter (my US Sailing Team Alphagraphics Coach) push me to the brink of exhaustion on the water.
The year has started off with a bang, but I must remember to pace myself because it’s all about trials this year. So in January and February I practically sailed and went to the gym every day, which means I took a bit of a break in March. I didn’t sail as much, but, I continued to train in the gym very hard. My focus was to gain weight. I managed to put on a few pounds which currently I am content with, but I know I need to gain more. Time will be the key ingredient in putting the weight on.
Right before I came to Spain I went to Colorado Springs to do a USSTAG (US Sailing Team Alphagraphics) training camp at the Olympic Training Center. It was very fun, but extremely strenuous. We did workouts and fitness test throughout the day. Our nutritionist was monitoring our dehydration levels which made realize how much more diligent I need to be on consuming fluids. I didn’t seem to absorb much so, I learned how to mix my drinks properly so it can benefit me more.
Back to the present day. I am here in Spain currently looking out to the ocean seeing lots of people training. I wish I could be out there right now, but logic tells me not to push it too hard yet because I want to prevent illness from wearing myself out. We had a tough last four days with lots of working out and then I traveled across the world to get here. So, I’m going to be smart and let myself recover.
I’m planning on starting to sail tomorrow and then I will fly to Barcelona to pick up my trailer and boat on the 25th. I then take a ferry that night and will be back to Palma on the 26 where I will resume training.
On April 4th I will be sailing in the Princess Sophia regatta, which is the third stop on the ISAF Sailing World Cup. It’s an important event for me, because I want to prove to myself that I have improved in some of these difficult conditions. Results wise though it is a grade C for me. Even though it’s not one of the most important regattas, I’m still going to go for a stellar result. I HATE doing bad, so I’m going to give it all I have. The regatta website is: http://www.trofeoprincesasofia.org/noticias.php
Paige
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Paige Railey's 2012 Olympic Campaign
Hey Everyone!!!
It’s Paige Railey here and I’m back blogging! I recently graduated from University of South Florida with a B.S. in Business Management and am ready to go sailing full time again. For the last two years I have been devoting most of my time to my studies so I could focus completely on my sailing for the last half of the Olympic cycle. In the last two years I have had very successful results, but I am ready to kick it up a notch!
2011 has started with a bang! I just finished racing US Sailings Rolex Miami OCR where I won a Gold Medal. This year I have high goals of winning the Olympic Trials, ISAF Worlds and donating 10% of my bonuses in honor of Olivia Lives to the Sarcoma Foundation of America chosen by Olivia’s mom. Olivia Lives is a program that a team and I established in memory of my dear friend Olivia Ceraolo. She died of a rare cancer at such a young age. Our program helps benefit the homeless around the local area and children with cancer.
To track me on my future sailing endeavors then please follow my website, twitter and facebook. I will routinely write blogs and post video blogs to my website. You can sign up for my video blogs on the website which will be emailed out and posted to the site. To notify you that I have completed an update, blog or any type of new information I will send a message to twitter and facebook stating that there is a new post. I will not be sending emails out with written blogs like I did before. Instead I will post them to the website in the blog section and tweet/facebook stating there is a new blog post. I will be frequently sending out tweets and adding messages to my facebook, so please sign up for both!
MY WEBSITE is:
My twitter is:
My facebook is:
My email is:
OLIVIA LIVES
You can always join and help too!
Facebook:
Website:
Thank you so much for your time and lets get ready for a successful road to the 2012 Olympic Games!
Paige Railey
I would like to thank the sponsors and supporters of the US Sailing Team AlphaGraphics especially our title sponsor AlphaGraphics and Gold Partners Atlantis and Rolex
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