Newport Harbor Sailing Foundation: Sailor Stories

Morgan Pinckney: American Magic Youth Foiling

Immediately after flying back from 505 Worlds in Ireland it was time to take on a new challenge - foiling. I had not done very much of it, so it figured my trial run foiling would be an America’s Cup invitational demonstration clinic and fund-raiser for challenger team American Magic.

My first day of the clinic was a little hectic. I got to Newport, RI, at 7 a.m. from Ireland. I was a little disoriented when I arrived at the boat park and found myself surrounded by the most talented U25 sailors in the country. We had incredible coaches like Jeremy Wilmot and Tom Burnahm. The first day was a little light, but we managed to get up on the foil and rip around in the 69F.

While the first day was a really cool experience, the next days were even cooler. There was more wind and we were able to foil around in the high 20 knots. I learned so much, trying every position, including driving and flight control. I left the clinic hungry and wanting to do more foiling. I am so excited to have been invited back to train again, in September, with American Magic’s youth program. I am grateful for the support the Newport Harbor Sailing Foundation has given me. None of this would be possible without its help.