Terence Carey’s sailing journey has been one of steady growth and embracing new challenges. Like many new sailors, self-doubt was an early obstacle, but he tackled it head-on by fully immersing himself in the sport—chartering regularly, crewing with other members, and volunteering with Modern Sailing's Crew Corps to gain experience. He quickly realized that every day on the water was an opportunity to learn, whether as a skipper or crew, and he embraced the idea of being “comfortably uncomfortable” to accelerate his development.
By May 2023, he began chartering boats from the Gold and Platinum fleet, developing an appreciation for the unique handling characteristics of each vessel. This led him to set an ambitious goal: to sail every boat in these top-tier fleets by the end of the year. With a mix of careful planning, dedication, and enthusiasm, he accomplished his goal on December 2, logging nearly 20 skipper days and expanding his sailing expertise across a diverse range of boats.
A Long-Awaited Dream Sets Sail
This level of commitment was rooted in a dream decades in the making. After retiring in December 2022, Terence was finally able to pursue his long-held goal of learning to sail. His inspiration came from two key experiences—living in San Francisco’s Marina District in the 1990s, where he admired sailboats gliding across the Bay, and his background as a recreational pilot, which gave him an appreciation for wind, navigation, and the dynamics of movement. Though life became busy with career and family, he never let go of the idea of sailing. Encouraged by a college friend who spoke highly of Modern Sailing, Terence took his first ASA course in February 2023, setting his journey into motion.
The Joy of Sailing and Shared Experiences
Among Terence’s most cherished sailing moments was introducing his family to the joys of sailing on the Bay. Witnessing their enthusiasm and understanding of his passion was a defining experience. Another standout memory was a serene sail with his wife in Mexico, where warm breezes and open waters provided an unforgettable contrast to the dynamic conditions of the Bay.
What he loves most about sailing is the camaraderie—bringing people together, setting a sail plan, and working as a team to achieve a shared goal while experiencing the world-class scenery of San Francisco Bay. Whether sailing with familiar friends or meeting new crew members, every sail is an opportunity to connect and grow.
A Foundation for Lifelong Adventure
Modern Sailing has been the foundation of Terence’s sailing education, providing a structured learning path through ASA 101, 103, 104, 105, 106, 114, and 118. Supportive instructors, helpful staff, and a welcoming community of fellow sailors have all contributed to his development.
Looking ahead, Terence’s sailing aspirations extend beyond the Bay. With a growing skillset, he plans to sail internationally, with Croatia and the British Virgin Islands on his near-term horizon. But the journey doesn’t end there—he remains committed to continuous learning, eager to see where the wind takes him next.
A Lesson in Dedication
Terence’s journey exemplifies the persistence and passion that define the Modern Sailing community. His story serves as inspiration for sailors at all levels—reminding us that every challenge overcome, every new boat mastered, and every mile sailed brings us closer to the limitless possibilities that sailing offers.
As storms recently swept through the Bay Area, we’re reminded that perseverance is a sailor’s greatest strength. Whether braving the elements or stepping outside our comfort zones, we all share the same adventurous spirit that keeps us coming back to the water, time and time again.
