by MaryKelly Selover

My Way, "mine own" 23-and-a-half-foot sailboat, has been in the water for almost two months. But due to travel and other commitments, today is just the second time I was able to join my crew to race. The boat's crisp new sails were about to take their maiden voyage.

I hoisted the main, which glided up the mast smoothly and easily. What a difference from the old, tired rags we had been using. Next, Janet released us from the mooring and I hoisted the jib. But alas, the sail remained on the deck, and its halyard--which should have been attached to it--got yanked to the top of the mast. Big, big problem!

Continue reading this at Women's Voices For Change.
Want more seafaring stories? Read about Lydia Chaverin McKenzie's adventures aboard the Tenacious!