Sep 7, 2010

Sailing with the Mauri Pro Sailing Team

By Kerry Pelton (Texas A&M Sailing Team)

I joined the Texas A&M Sailing Team in the fall of 2009, racing 420s in the Southeast Intercollegiate Sailing Conference. This is the beginning of my competitive sailing career. This past march, I was lucky to be invited to sail with the Mauri Pro Sailing team on their Farr 39 at Lake Texoma during Lakefest and several other regattas as part of their support program to local College Sailing Teams.

My experiences with Juan and his crew have taught me more about sailing in a few short weekends than I ever have understood before. By racing on bigger boats, I have begun to understand the uses and purpose of the fine-tuning adjustments.


My favorite aspect of racing with Mauri Pro Sailing is their sense of focus and determination to dominate on the race course. From the preparatory flag to the finishing gun, they mean business. I have learned that each race is a new start and you have to race yourself, push the limits and never take it easy. Even if you are in the lead, no place is guaranteed.

I love assisting on the bow. Each mark rounding with spinnaker hoists and peels leaves me with a huge adrenaline rush. I certainly get nervous every regatta when the gun goes off, but I am glad to be in such a wonderful learning environment.


I love Juan Mauri and his team welcoming personalities and immediately felt like part of their family, more than just a teammate. The international aspect of their crew really intrigues me because I have a Spanish background and plan to minor in Spanish. I am very thankful that I was introduced to the Mauri Pro Sailing crew and cannot wait for future regattas on board their boats, improving my sailing skills while developing lasting friendships.

Kerry Pelton
Texas A&M Class of 2013

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