A farmer from County Meath representing Ireland in sailing at the Olympics.
That is what Tom Dolan would like to do, in France in 2024, when sailing at the Games is based in Marseille. The Olympic classes then are intended to include a new mixed two-handed offshore keelboat. The proposed new class has already interested Irish sailors with offshore experience.
Having finished as top non-French sailor in the Figaro Race, the 33-year-old tells me on this week's Afloat Podcast that he worked very hard on himself, particularly his decision-making, in preparation for this year's Figaro Race to achieve his success.
Tom Dolan Sailing on his Figaro 3 yacht
He says that he likes the Figaro Race because it provides such an equal level of competition of sailor and boat against each other, not like "cheque-book" sailing which can dominate a lot of offshore racing.
He talks also about the elitism still perceived towards sailing and contrasts how some Irish yacht and sailing clubs have, he says, a 'keep out' approach in comparison to France. Tom Dolan describes how, in France, sailing is a major sport and how it was opened up there by public investment to anyone who would like to become involved.
Listen to the Podcast below. Also read: Tom Dolan: A People's Hero for Irish Sailing
