Johnny Lovell is a CPA that runs a business. He also has a two year old son so like many of you, when he goes sailing he is taking time off from his job (not making money) and his family (You could argue that Robbie Daniels is more of a "professional" than Johnny). I think this makes his accomplishments quite impressive since many of his competitors are spending a lot more time training while he is working. Charlie Ogeltree is a professional in the industry being employed by Ullman Sails.

I think if you have not sailed an international or Olympic class WC or Olympic trials, it is hard to appreciate how the level of competition is ramped up another notch (or a couple of notches). It is not for everyone but some can enjoy the challenge and the preparation that is required to do well. It IS fun to them. It is not an accurate or fair statement to label that level of competition "cut-throat". Often I see people critical of this because they are not willing to make the commitment to that level.

While I am sure Robbie and Hunter are extremely disappointed that they did not win the trials, perhaps they can take some satisfaction in knowing that if Johnny and Charlie medal again, it will in some part be due to the challenge they had to overcome at the Trials.

Bob Hodges
A-Class USA 230