Each month we feature sailors who pursue the passion of sailing through education, lifestyle, and commitment to community. This month we were inspired by Howard Clayman’s story and he is our December 2023 Sailor of the Month.
This story takes us to Herzliya, Israel, where Howard runs the Blue Wave-Tashoot Sailing Academy. It’s a unique Sailor of the Month story — we take a look at how current events have impacted the day-to-day, as well as, of course, talking sailing stories from weathering harrowing storms to racing in the Cowes Week regatta. We’ve spoken with Howard before, and we’re excited to catch back up with him and see that his sails are still full and new sailors are cruising the beautiful Mediterranean waters under his leadership every day.
We hope you find his story as inspiring as we do. Please take the time to share your own story with us — every journey that leads to a sailboat is worth hearing! (Not to mention the perks of being chosen are pretty great!)
American Sailing: How long have you been sailing?
Howard Clayman: 40+ years
American Sailing: Where is your home port?
Howard Clayman: Herzliya, Israel
American Sailing: Where is your favorite place to sail?
Howard Clayman: Greek Islands
American Sailing: What ASA Certifications do you hold?
Howard Clayman: ASA 201, 203, 204. Israeli professional skipper license.
American Sailing: What ASA school(s) did you attend?
American Sailing: Do you currently, or have you ever owned a sailboat?
Howard Clayman: Currently have a Beneteau First 21.7
American Sailing: What got you into sailing?
Howard Clayman: I was an active surfer so loved the ocean. Had an opportunity to take a sailing course at UCSB where I studied undergrad, and simply fell in love with this fantastic way to enjoy the ocean. I continued sailing dinghys on the Charles River in Boston in the BU sailing program, nearly every day weather permitting.
Upon returning to California I bought a Finn and actively sailed and raced her from Marina del Rey. I moved to San Francisco and raced actively on the bay in a variety of yachts. I had an opportunity to join some long distance yacht races in California and found my calling for several years as a member of the crew of some well known larger racing yachts sailing the California to Mexico circuit.
I’ve been sailing ever since and currently live in Israel and teach ASA courses.
American Sailing: What is your most memorable sailing experience?
Howard Clayman: Participating in a Cowes Week regatta in the Solent in the UK. We had a brand new factory boat from the Jeremy Rogers yard known for the famous Contessa 32 yachts. This week of racing was something special and opened my eyes to sailing outside of the US.
American Sailing: How has American Sailing played a part in your growth as a sailor?
Howard Clayman: I had taught sailing in the past but never on the professional level that ASA has made me. Using the ASA methodology I have been able to apply the skills I know and pass them on to new sailors. ASA materials have given me a very organized way to present the knowledge and skills that help develop new sailors. Seeing many of my students excel and fall in love with sailing has really enriched my love of the sport.
American Sailing: What is your favorite aspect of American Sailing membership?
Howard Clayman: The advanced courses and professional lectures. I particularly like Peter Isler’s weather lectures.
American Sailing: Why should people become an ASA member?
Howard Clayman: As a supplement to their sailing activities following completion of the course. Staying within the ASA network and finding out about flotillas, charters, advanced courses. Feeling a part of the ASA sailing community. The discounts on products is nice also.
Sailing SoloTeaching an ASA CourseKastellorizo GreeceCorinth Canal PassageForedeck Team Marina del ReyAt the helm.Nancy, the Real SkipperTuna Time
Want to be featured as the next Sailor of the Month?
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