Most of the time, preparing a team and a yacht for a big race or regatta can be a chore. For the last three days though, splendid weather and productive sailing have boosted the experience for the Oakcliff All-American Offshore Team.

© Courtesy OAAOT

A week-long offshore training session gave the Oakcliff All-American Offshore Team a chance to test their boat, themselves, and their wet weather gear.

I have often listened to experienced ocean racers wax on and on about life at sea. I've endured their enthusiastic dispensing of advice, waiting and wanting to experience offshore racing for myself. I’ve desired the simplicity and direct purpose of that time away from land. I’ve wanted to see the unobstructed view of the stars at night. I’ve dreamt of leaving the cell phone on land, concentrating only on sailing, and having three square meals a day. (Of course, by square meal, I mean a macrobiotic slurry of freeze-dried intestinal distress.)

© Amory Ross/www.amoryross.com

Oakcliff All-American Offshore Team Sailing Team Manager Charlie Enright (at right, with hat) talks to the team as they prepare for the Annapolis to Newport Ocean Race, the team's first true offshore test.

I’ve never worked the bowels of an old sailing ship in the Caribbean. Nor in a boiler room. I’ve never studied a volcano up close and personal. But after two days of doing boat work in 100-degree heat in Baltimore, I feel like I’ve experienced something on par. 

I’ve done my fair share of carbon work and sanding. However, after two days of coating myself with a savage combination of sunscreen and sweat, the word itchy just doesn’t quite capture the feeling of burning in the pores of my skin.