"On average (the difference) is huge," says Dennis Case, "but for those that are the very best amateurs, there is very little difference with the average professional. The real pros, however, have answers to questions us amateurs haven't even thought to ask.  The cross training they have between boats is invaluable."

Phil Lotz mostly sails with amateurs, but does see a difference. "The amateur crew knows what to do, but often just doesn't have the sea miles to hone skills," he says. The key to sailing with all-amateur teams, he adds, is to work on practice, coaching, and developing consistency. "I would add that a program is not a program if the equipment is not top notch," he adds. "No one wants to spend their weekends fixing things or dropping out of races."

Inevitably, a team will have a setback or bad day on the water. A professional has most likely learned how to shake off a bad race, but for an amateur crew, it can be a challenge overcoming adversity. I asked how each of these sailors handles difficult situations so the crew stays intact, and looks ahead, not back. Bayer's suggestion is most poignant.

"The most important organization issue is to avoid blame," he says. "Everyone wants to win, but if you race a lot there will be some bad races. We try to focus on how we can avoid problems. We talk about what we did wrong after every race. It is regular routine that helps us look ahead to the next regatta."

Lotz agrees, emphasizing the need to evaluate mistakes and work through what needs to be improved. "No yelling, no finger pointing, after or during the race," he says. Dennis Case doesn't like yelling either. "One thing we don't do is yell at the crew," he says. "That's no fun. I once heard a crew member tell a yelling skipper that if he wanted to get yelled at, he would have stayed home." 

The flip side to this story is how crews can be sure to remain an invaluable member of the team. My suggestions include paying for your own travel to regattas, teaming up with other crew to pay for a crew dinner, making or providing lunches occasionally. And if you want to be a hero, buy a nice year-end gift for the owner. Crew clothing, binoculars, or some handy boat item will always go over well. Whatever happens, many owners I know say there's nothing more annoying than getting "nickel and dimed" for every little expense.
 
Racing together is a big commitment for the owner, crew, family, and supporters, and everyone likes to be part of a team. The insight from Bayer, Case, and Lotz will help me this year, and I hope it will for you as well. Now let's get out there and get sailing.